Black Boy

Discuss Wright’s representation of Black boyhood. Did you find any of his commentary on childhood surprising, and if so, why? What role does his socialization with other Black boys play in the development of his identity?

Using direct quotes and research, discuss the evolution of Wright’s ideas about the role of the Black artist.

How does geography in both the North and the South shape Richard Wright’s identity?

In what ways does Black Boy fulfill expectations for the autobiographical genre? In what ways does Wright depart from simply telling his life story? What accounts for those departures from a strictly personal narrative?

What is Wright’s relationship to the Black communities in which he lives in the South and the North? What accounts for his difficulties in fitting into these communities?

Discuss the use of hunger as a motif in the book.

Research the Great Migration, the mass movement of Black Americans from the rural South to the urban South and North during the 20th century. Are Wright’s experiences of life in Memphis and Chicago typical for Black migrants?

Research the role of the American Communist Party in Black arts during the early twentieth century. What about their aims attracted artists such as Wright? Why does Wright ultimately choose to leave the party?