Analysis Of 'Shame' By Dick Gregory

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In the essay “Shame”, by Dick Gregory, the author narrates how two painful experiences during his childhood reflected how difficult it was to grow up as a poor African American. Gregory was ashamed of being on welfare and of his poverty, so much so that he got of rid of the warm hooded mackaw he received because it was a reminder that he and his family were on relief. Gregory also expresses his embarrassment, shame, and desire to hold onto his dignity throughout it all. In the essay “I Became Her Target”, by Roger Wilkins, the author describes how it was difficult for him to break the ice with his classmates because he was a new student in school. In fact, Wilkins was the only black student in this new school which only worsened the situation. Moreover, he was the target of both …show more content…

If your Daddy can give fifteen dollars you have no business on relief” (Gregory 638). This quote expresses the shame that Gregory feels because he is poor especially since because his teacher is embarrassing him in front of his classmates. There is no doubt that he was being singled out and that no other student had experienced similar treatment from the teacher. She yelled at him because she was impatient and angry with him. It is also suggested by this time that she had completely given up on trying to teach Gregory anything because of his behavioral problems. It is not implied that Gregory’s teacher tried to encourage or help him. Gregory never referred to his teacher as his favorite which is quite the opposite to that of Wilkins. Gregory wanted to get away from her. “I waked out that day and for a long time I didn’t go back very often” (Gregory 638). Gregory was so embarrassed by what his teacher had said to him in front of his classmates, and most importantly to Helen, as a result he did not want to go back to school because there was shame

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