Notes of A Native Son by James Baldwin

               Authors often use writing as a way to cope with painful aspects within their lives. In the essay, Notes of A Native Son, American novelist James Baldwin recounts his complex relationship between himself and his recently deceased father. Growing up in Harlem during the racially charged 1950’s, Baldwin had resented his father from an early age. A strict, fire and brimstone preacher, his dad showed little appreciation for him and others including his family. It is only at his funeral in which he attempts to reevaluate his father does Baldwin realizes the effect of racial discrimination on both their lives and interactions.
               Baldwin's depiction of his relationship with his father while he was alive is full of loathing and detest for him. Using anecdotes, he is able to share with the defining moments of both his and his fathers past. One story of his father’s relationship with his teacher gave much insight into the origins of their problems. Despite Baldwin’s teacher helping him in school and getting him engaged in drama, his father, “Never trusted her Baldwin, 224)” due to her being Caucasian.  His lack of acceptance of different races and his un-resolving anger was critical in leading the author discussing his father’s personal struggle with racism.
               The stories also revealed some of the heartwarming aspects of their relationship. As a child, the only time Baldwin’s dad was ever was proud of him was he sang at church. His usual cold, distant persona changed and, “he had always grinned with pleasure when my solo’s ended (Baldwin, 234.)” Baldwin cannot help but feel that his father was imposing his thoughts on him. On the other hand, moments like these show how father does have genuine love for him. Without these stories, readers would not have the tools needed to fully understand the complexity of their relationship. While it may not be the most exciting, the essay provides the audience with thoughtful material that can capture the anger, fear, and ultimately, forgiveness that occurs in their relationship.


Book- Oates, Joyce Carol, and Robert Atwan. The Best American Essays of the Century. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2000. Print.
Image- http://www.splicetoday.com/politics-and-media/james-baldwin-and-ferguson

Family is  forever.  Social injustice isn't.