Question

What paradox of social injustice is presented in these lines from Countee Cullen's "From the Dark Tower"?

Answer 1

Answer:

The best answer seems to be letter B) Those who today enjoy power and prosperity may one day become subordinate to those they deem inferior.

Explanation:

In the lines we are analyzing here, Countee Cullen, an author of the Harlem Renaissance movement, presents a social paradox. When he says, "We shall not always plant while others reap", he seems to be referring to the fact that oppression still exists. Not unlike during slavery, there are those who do all the work while others enjoy the fruits, the result of such work. However, the author claims such situation won't continue to exist. The men who make others work for them under oppression, the men who dare see their brothers as inferior, will someday know what it is like to be the one in a subordinate position. The day will come when they'll have a taste of the suffering and prejudice they inflicted upon others.