Question

Which two themes interact in this short story the man who was almost a man

Answer 1

In the short story "The Man Who Was Almost A Man" by Richard Wright, the two intertwining themes are "the struggle for power" and "coming-of-age". Dave Saunders, the protagonist of this story, feels that by acquiring a gun, he will become a man and have more power in his life.

Answer 2

Answer:

The themes in “The Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright interact and build on each other. The themes " acquiring/ the fight for power" and "coming of age" go hand in hand because Dave feels as if he got a gun, he would finally achieve some power and become a Man. Dave wants to be independent but has not been granted that freedom by his parents, and he is irresponsible, not being able to keep his money and save it. The gun symbolizes being ​powerful and masculine, something that Dave felt he desperately needed. When he finally gets the gun he feels powerful but soon realizes power does not make you a man or adult. The gun also did not give him the respect he expected from those around him like he originally thought. Dave lied to those around him and to himself believing that he was looking for more work and commitment which are the real aspects of adulthood. However, we can see by the end of the story that he was not interested in the true responsibilities of adulthood. Instead, he is seeking an escape from the responsibilities he had.