Introduction: “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
“The Man Who Was Almost a Man,” also known as “Almos’ a Man,” is a short story by Richard Wright, originally published in 1940 in Harper’s Bazaar magazine, and again in 1961 as part of Wright’s compilation Eight Men. This powerful short story showcases Wright’s masterful exploration of the African American experience, delving into themes of racial tension, masculinity, and the struggles of adolescence. Through the protagonist’s journey, Wright skillfully portrays the qualities of frustration, anger, and the quest for identity, which continue to resonate with readers today. The story’s vivid and poignant portrayal of a young black man’s struggles in the American South during the 1940s remains a significant contribution to the literary canon.
Main Events in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
Desire for a Gun:
- Dave, feeling demeaned by his peers, yearns to assert his manhood by owning a gun.
- He believes that possessing a firearm will garner respect and autonomy.
Visit to Joe’s Store:
- Dave visits Joe’s store to procure a Sears Roebuck catalog to peruse firearms.
- He encounters skepticism from Joe regarding his intention to purchase a gun.
Purchase of a Gun:
- Despite Joe’s doubt, Dave buys a pistol from him for two dollars.
- He conceals the purchase from his mother, who only agrees under the condition that he returns the gun promptly.
Conflict with Dave’s Mother:
- Dave’s mother discovers the catalog and questions him about it.
- Initially, she refuses to permit him to have the gun, citing his youth and potential dangers.
Persuasion of Dave’s Mother:
- Dave implores his mother, pledging responsibility and emphasizing the need for protection.
- Reluctantly, she permits him to buy the gun but insists he return it immediately after showing it to his father.
Secret Practice:
- Dave clandestinely practices with the gun in the fields, feeling empowered by its presence.
- He refrains from firing it to avoid detection by his father.
Tragic Accident:
- While plowing with a mule named Jenny, Dave decides to test the gun.
- Startled by the gunshot, Jenny reacts and fatally injures herself on the plow.
Guilt and Panic:
- Dave panics and attempts to halt Jenny’s bleeding, but his efforts are futile.
- He is overwhelmed with guilt and fears the consequences of his actions.
Concealing the Truth:
- Dave fabricates a story to explain Jenny’s death, claiming it was an unrelated accident.
- He hides the gun and resorts to deception to avoid accountability.
Public Humiliation:
- Dave’s lie is met with skepticism and ridicule from the community.
- He is mocked for unwittingly purchasing a dead mule with his gun.
Dave’s Punishment:
- Dave’s father demands he retrieve the gun and return the money to Jim Hawkins.
- He faces the prospect of a beating from his father for his reckless behavior.
Inner Conflict:
- Dave grapples with feelings of humiliation, anger, and helplessness.
- He struggles with the desire to reclaim his dignity and assert his manhood.
Reckless Decision:
- Frustrated and seeking validation, Dave resolves to defy societal norms by boarding a passing train.
- He fantasizes about proving his manhood through daring actions.
Dave’s Escape:
- Dave impulsively boards a train, driven by a longing for freedom and independence.
- He dreams of leaving behind his troubles and finding a new identity elsewhere.
Uncertain Future:
- Dave’s journey on the train symbolizes his yearning for escape and self-discovery.
- The story concludes with Dave’s future left open to interpretation, his fate uncertain
Literary Devices in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
| Literary Device | Example | Explanation |
| Alliteration | “He heard Joe coming back. He craned his neck to see if he were bringing the book.” | Alliteration occurs with the repetition of the “c” sound in “craned” and “coming,” creating a rhythmic effect. |
| Characterization | Dave’s internal dialogue and actions reveal his desire for maturity and respect. | Through interactions with various characters, Dave’s traits and motivations are revealed, driving the narrative. |
| Conflict | The central conflict revolves around Dave’s desire for a gun and its consequences. | The tension between Dave’s aspirations and reality drives the story forward, shaping his character development. |
| Dialogue | Conversations reveal character relationships, tensions, and motivations. | Through exchanges between characters, their dynamics, conflicts, and themes of power and authority are highlighted. |
| Foreshadowing | Dave’s fascination with the gun and secret practice sessions hint at tragedy. | Early clues and hints suggest the eventual outcome, adding depth and anticipation to the narrative. |
| Hyperbole | “A gun! Whut you want with a gun?” | Hyperbole emphasizes Joe’s disbelief at Dave’s desire for a gun, intensifying the scene. |
| Imagery | “Her hands moved slowly, reflectively Dave kept an anxious silence.” | Vivid descriptions create a tense atmosphere, evoking emotions and anticipation in the reader. |
| Irony | Dave believes a gun will make him a man, but its mishandling leads to tragedy. | The contrast between Dave’s expectations and reality adds depth and complexity to the narrative. |
| Metaphor | “His courage began to ooze.” | Metaphorically, Dave’s confidence diminishes in the presence of authority, highlighting his vulnerability. |
| Mood | Tension and unease permeate the story. | The emotional atmosphere shapes the reader’s experience, creating suspense and anticipation. |
| Personification | “The gun lay at his feet. He did not quite know what had happened.” | Giving human traits to the gun suggests its influence on events, adding depth to the narrative. |
| Point of View | Third-person limited perspective on Dave’s thoughts and experiences. | The narrative focuses on Dave’s perspective, providing insight into his mindset and actions. |
| Repetition | “He laid the catalogue down and slipped his arm around her waist.” | Repetition emphasizes Dave’s actions, highlighting his attempts to gain approval and support. |
| Setting | Rural Southern setting serves as backdrop for themes of power and identity. | The environment reflects societal norms and influences characters’ behaviors and aspirations. |
| Simile | “Like a hungry dog scratching for a bone, he pawed it up.” | The simile compares Dave’s determination to find the gun to a hungry dog seeking food, emphasizing his desperation. |
| Symbolism | The gun symbolizes power and autonomy for Dave. | The gun represents Dave’s aspirations and the societal pressures he faces, adding depth to his character. |
| Theme | Themes of power, autonomy, and consequences of actions are explored. | The narrative delves into universal concepts, shaping character arcs and driving the plot forward. |
| Tone | Shifts from anticipation to tension, regret, and resignation. | The tone sets the story’s emotional atmosphere, reflecting characters’ experiences and the narrative’s progression. |
| Understatement | “Looks like you have bought you a mule, Dave.” | Understatement downplays the severity of Dave’s actions, highlighting the community’s indifference. |
| Voice | Wright’s narrative voice authentically captures characters’ speech patterns. | The distinctive voice immerses the reader in the Southern setting, enhancing the story’s authenticity. |
Characterization in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
Major Characters:
- Dave Saunders:
- Example: Dave is characterized as a young, naive, and impulsive teenager who longs for respect and autonomy. His desire for a gun symbolizes his aspiration to assert his manhood and gain recognition in a society where he feels powerless.
- Explanation: Throughout the story, Dave’s actions and internal dialogue reveal his internal conflict between youthful impulsiveness and a desire for maturity. His interactions with his mother, Joe, and Jim Hawkins illustrate his yearning for respect and the consequences of his reckless decisions.
Minor Characters:
- Dave’s Mother:
- Example: Dave’s mother is depicted as a hardworking and pragmatic woman who cares deeply for her son. She serves as a voice of reason and caution, advising Dave against his obsession with owning a gun.
- Explanation: Through her dialogue and interactions with Dave, his mother demonstrates her concern for his well-being and attempts to guide him towards responsible behavior. Her refusal to support his desire for a gun highlights her understanding of the dangers it poses.
- Joe:
- Example: Joe is portrayed as a stern but fair figure in Dave’s life, representing authority and the adult world. He serves as Dave’s boss at Mr. Hawkins’ farm and becomes involved in the consequences of Dave’s actions.
- Explanation: Joe’s interactions with Dave reveal his role as a mentor and disciplinarian. His disapproval of Dave’s desire for a gun reflects societal norms and expectations regarding maturity and responsibility.
- Jim Hawkins:
- Example: Jim Hawkins is the owner of the farm where Dave works and represents the embodiment of authority and power in the story. His reaction to Dave’s mishandling of the gun underscores the serious consequences of Dave’s actions.
- Explanation: Jim Hawkins’ brief appearance in the story emphasizes the impact of Dave’s choices on those in positions of authority. His response to the incident serves as a sobering reality check for Dave, highlighting the gravity of his actions.
Major Themes in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
- Coming of Age and the Desire for Masculinity:
- Example: The protagonist, David, desperately wants a gun, a symbol of manhood in the South during this time. He sees it as a way to transition from being a boy to a man.
- Quote: “Ahma git some money from Ma n buy me a gun! Only two dollahs!”
- Racial Inequality and Power Dynamics:
- Example: David works for Mr. Hawkins, a white man. The power imbalance is evident in how David is expected to be subservient and how his opinions are disregarded.
- Quote: “Can’t yuh hear? Why don yuh lissen? Ah ast yu how wuz yuh n ol man Hawkins gittin erlong?”
- The Importance of Material Possessions:
- Example: The catalogue, though filled with various items, becomes particularly important to David because it features guns. Owning a gun signifies a certain level of status and power for him.
- Quote: “He thumbed page after page, unaware of the food his mother set on the table.” (David is more focused on the catalogue than on eating)
- Family Conflict and Tension:
- Example: David’s desire for the gun creates tension with his mother. She doesn’t understand his obsession and sees the catalogue as useless.
- Quote: ““Now, ef yuh gonna act a fool over that ol book, Ah’ll take it n burn it.” / “Naw, Ma, please.””
Writing Style in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
- Vivid Dialect: Wright captures the Southern dialect of the characters authentically, using contractions (“Ahma”), shortened words (“suppah”), and regional pronunciations (“thata”). This creates a sense of place and immediacy, immersing the reader in David’s world.
- Simple, Direct Language: The prose is clear and concise, mirroring David’s young age and limited education. It allows the story’s themes and emotions to emerge organically without flowery language getting in the way.
- Focus on Action and Details: Wright paints a picture through specific actions and details. We see David “tucking the thick catalogue under his arm,” “grabbing for it,” and “thumbing page after page.” These details bring the story to life and reveal David’s inner world.
- Sparse Emotional Expression: David’s emotions are often implied rather than explicitly stated. We see his frustration in his actions, like “groping back to the kitchen” after being pushed. This technique allows the reader to connect with David on an emotional level without him needing to articulate his feelings directly.
- Shifting Perspectives: The story primarily follows David’s thoughts, but Wright occasionally shifts to the perspective of other characters. This provides glimpses into their viewpoints, adding depth to the story and highlighting the power dynamics between David and those around him (like his father).
Literary Theories and Interpretation of “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
| Literary Theory | Interpretation | Example from the Story | Explanation |
| Marxist Literary Theory | Dave’s desire for a gun and his belief that it will elevate his status reflects his aspiration to gain power and autonomy in a society structured by class divisions and economic inequality. | Dave’s longing for a gun symbolizes his desire to transcend his socioeconomic status and assert his independence. His decision to purchase the gun, despite its risks, reflects his belief that it will bring him respect and authority. | In a Marxist interpretation, the story can be seen as a critique of the oppressive social and economic structures that limit individuals like Dave. It highlights how material possessions, such as a gun, become symbols of power and status, perpetuating the cycle of inequality and reinforcing the struggle for agency within marginalized communities. |
| Psychoanalytic Literary Theory | Dave’s fixation on owning a gun and his impulsive actions can be interpreted as manifestations of subconscious desires and conflicts, such as the need for recognition, fear of emasculation, and rebellion against authority figures. | Dave’s obsession with owning a gun and his reckless behavior stem from deeper psychological motivations, including a desire for validation and a fear of being perceived as weak or powerless. His actions can be seen as attempts to assert his masculinity and autonomy in response to feelings of inadequacy. | From a psychoanalytic perspective, the story explores the complexities of human psychology and the unconscious forces that drive behavior. Dave’s struggles reflect universal themes of identity formation and the quest for self-actualization, offering insights into the inner workings of the human mind and the interplay between conscious desires and subconscious impulses. |
| Feminist Literary Theory | The story sheds light on the patriarchal norms and gender roles that shape Dave’s aspirations and interactions, as well as the marginalization of female characters such as Dave’s mother. | Dave’s mother serves as a voice of reason and caution, yet her authority is undermined by patriarchal expectations that diminish her agency and influence. Her refusal to support Dave’s desire for a gun highlights the constraints imposed on women within traditional gender roles. | Through a feminist lens, the story critiques the societal constructs that perpetuate gender inequality and restrict women’s autonomy. It underscores the importance of challenging traditional gender norms and amplifying the voices of marginalized individuals, offering a nuanced portrayal of the struggles faced by women and the impact of gender dynamics on personal agency and relationships. |
Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
| Topic | Question | Thesis Statement |
| Socioeconomic Disparity | How does socioeconomic status influence the characters’ actions and aspirations in the story? | In “A Man Who Was Almost a Man,” Richard Wright explores the impact of socioeconomic disparity on individual agency and identity, illustrating how aspirations for power and autonomy are shaped by economic constraints. |
| Masculinity and Identity | How is masculinity portrayed, and how does it affect the characters’ sense of identity and self-worth? | Richard Wright delves into the complexities of masculinity in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man,” depicting how societal expectations and internalized norms influence characters’ perceptions of themselves and their pursuit of validation and respect. |
| Symbolism of the Gun | What does the gun symbolize, and how does its significance evolve throughout the story? | The gun in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” serves as a multifaceted symbol representing power, agency, and the struggle for autonomy, its evolving significance reflecting Dave’s journey toward self-realization and the consequences of his actions. |
| Consequences of Impulsive Behavior | How do impulsive decisions shape the characters’ lives, and what broader commentary does the story offer on human nature? | Richard Wright explores the repercussions of impulsive behavior in “A Man Who Was Almost a Man,” highlighting the intersection of personal agency, social expectations, and the pursuit of autonomy in the face of adversity and systemic oppression. |
Short Questions/Answers about/on “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
- Q1: How does Dave’s desire for a gun reflect his struggles with identity and masculinity, and what commentary does this offer on societal expectations of manhood?
- A1: Dave’s desire for a gun is a symbol of his desire to prove his masculinity and transition from boyhood to manhood. This reflects his struggles with identity, as he feels emasculated by his mother’s control and his father’s absence. His desire for a gun is also influenced by societal expectations of manhood, which equate masculinity with power, strength, and violence. Through Dave’s character, Wright critiques these expectations, highlighting the damaging effects of toxic masculinity and the limitations placed on young black men in a racist society.
- Q2: How does the relationship between Dave and his mother reveal the power dynamics at play in their household and the societal constraints placed on women and children?
- A2: The relationship between Dave and his mother reveals a complex power dynamic, with Dave seeking autonomy and independence, while his mother seeks to maintain control and protect him from harm. This dynamic reflects the societal constraints placed on women and children, particularly in the rural South during the early 20th century. Dave’s mother is forced to manage the household and make difficult decisions, while also being subject to the whims of her husband and the racist society around her. Through their relationship, Wright highlights the ways in which women and children are marginalized and disempowered, and the ways in which they resist and subvert these power structures.
- Q3: What role does economic oppression play in the story, and how does it intersect with racism and gender dynamics?
- A3: Economic oppression is a significant theme in the story, as Dave and his family struggle to make ends meet and are subject to the whims of their white employer, Mr. Hawkins. The story highlights the ways in which economic oppression intersects with racism and gender dynamics, as Dave’s family is forced to rely on the charity of their white employer and is subject to exploitation and violence. The story also highlights the ways in which economic oppression limits the choices and opportunities available to Dave and his family, particularly in terms of education and employment. Through the character of Dave, Wright critiques the capitalist system and its perpetuation of racial and gender inequality.
- Q4: How does the story’s use of dialect and vernacular language contribute to its themes of identity, power, and resistance, and what impact does this have on the reader’s experience?
- A4: The story’s use of dialect and vernacular language is a deliberate choice by Wright to reflect the speech patterns and cultural heritage of African Americans in the rural South. This use of language contributes to the themes of identity, power, and resistance, as it highlights the ways in which language is used as a tool of oppression and resistance. The use of dialect also creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the reader into the world of the story and forcing them to confront the harsh realities of racism and oppression. The use of vernacular language also challenges the reader’s expectations and forces them to engage with the story on its own terms, rather than through the dominant language and culture of the time.
Literary Works Similar to “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
- “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin (1957) – Like Wright’s story, Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues” delves into issues of identity, family dynamics, and the struggle for autonomy, albeit in a different socio-cultural context.
- “A Good Man is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor (1953) – O’Connor’s story shares themes of moral ambiguity, existential crisis, and the consequences of human actions, echoing some of the existential themes present in Wright’s work.
- “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara (1972) – Bambara’s story explores themes of social inequality, education, and the disillusionment of marginalized youth, resonating with Wright’s portrayal of societal barriers and aspirations for empowerment.
- “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut (1961) – Vonnegut’s dystopian tale addresses themes of individuality, conformity, and the quest for freedom in a society that imposes oppressive limitations, paralleling some of the struggles faced by the protagonist in Wright’s story.
Suggested Readings about/on “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
- Loftis, John E. “Domestic Prey: Richard Wright’s Parody of the Hunt Tradition in ‘The Man Who Was Almost a Man.'” EBSCO Publishing, 2002.
- Reilly, John. Richard Wright: The Critical Reception. Ayer Publishing, 1978.
- Wright, Richard. “The Man Who Was Almost a Man.” Harper’s Bazaar, January 1940, pp. 40–41, 105–107.
- Wright, Richard. “The Man Who Was Almost a Man.” The Norton Anthology of American Literature, edited by Nina Baym, W.W. Norton & Company, 736–747.
- Wright, Richard. “The Man Who Was Almost a Man.” The Story and Its Writer, edited by Ann Charters, Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2011, pp. 878–87.
Representative Quotations from “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright
| Quotation | Context | Theorization |
| “Ma, Gawd knows Ah wans one of these.” | Dave expresses his desire for a gun, which he sees as a symbol of manhood and power. | This quotation highlights Dave’s yearning for autonomy and masculinity, reflecting his desire to assert control over his life and circumstances. It also reflects themes of adolescence and coming of age. |
| “Lawd, chil, whut’s wrong wid yuh?” | Dave’s mother responds to his persistent plea for a gun with concern and disbelief. | This quotation underscores the generational and cultural divide between Dave and his mother. It also reveals the tension between traditional values and youthful aspirations. |
| “Ah’ll let yuh git tha gun ef yuh promise me one thing.” | Dave’s mother agrees to let him buy the gun but sets a condition. | This quotation illustrates the power dynamic between Dave and his mother, with her imposing authority even as she reluctantly grants him permission. It also foreshadows potential consequences for Dave’s actions. |
| “Here. Lawd knows yuh don need no gun. But yer pa does.” | Dave’s mother reluctantly gives him the money for the gun, emphasizing its necessity for his father’s protection. | This quotation highlights the sacrifices and responsibilities of parenthood, as well as the theme of familial duty. It also underscores the disparity between Dave’s perception of the gun as a symbol of personal empowerment and his mother’s pragmatic view of it as a tool for practical necessity. |
| “Yessum.” | Dave’s obedient response to his mother’s instructions. | This quotation signifies Dave’s acknowledgment of his mother’s authority and his compliance with her wishes, despite his desire for independence. It also reflects themes of respect for parental authority and the cultural expectations of obedience. |