Themes: Passivity

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The theme of passivity intertwines with that of violence and cruelty. Clay passively embraces a secondary role in society, a role inherently unable to attain true excellence because it is merely a weak imitation of white culture. Black assimilation means adopting the values and norms of the oppressive system. This passive acceptance breeds followers instead of leaders. A black Baudelaire can never exceed Baudelaire's artistry because in adopting both the genre and its evaluative criteria, creativity is stifled. The urge to innovate is quashed. No leader—whether political, artistic, or social—can arise in a society that merely imitates; nothing flourishes in a stagnant setting. The stagnation of black society within a sterile, white-dominated environment leads to a decrease in imagination, performance, and self-confidence.

On a different level, Clay's passivity is shown through his reliance on words rather than deeds. He counters Lula's provocations with sophisticated-sounding responses. When he finally bursts into anger, it becomes evident that his calm demeanor was merely a facade.

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Themes: Violence and Cruelty

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