Discussion Post: Black Arts Movement, Essay Example

Sam Shepard’s play True West represents a conflict between the modern American culture and America’s untamed past. This conflict is symbolized by the two main characters of the play who are brothers. Austin, the screenwriter, represents the hope of modern America whereas Lee, the drifter, represents the lawless side of American culture. Shepard, by placing the brothers in a contentious, often violent relationship, to one another is expressing the theme that America’s cultural aspirations may not be well-suited to its historical past. In some ways, the character of Austin is an opportunist who is using the tragedy and suffering of others to promote his indulgent lifestyle of creativity and success. Similarly, Lee, in having no way to adequately provide for himself relies on his brother to sustain him. The two brothers show that there is a schism in American society between the “haves” and “have nots” as well as betwen the past and present. I agree with Stephen James Bottoms that the play is about the duality of American culture and that

most Americans would agree that they are equally fascinated by social success and social rebellion. These two components may actually be the foundation of American self-identity.

A similar vision is articulated in Brooks’ poem “We Real Cool” where the dropouts from scoiety are glamorized but also warned about the danger of rebellion. Baraka’s play Dutchman also explores the issue social convention and rebellion. The character of Clay shows a conflict between adhering to white society adn violently rejecting it. In Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use,” shows Dee’s conflict betwen being an educated American and a proud African American. Audre Lourde’s, “Poetry is not a Luxury,” explores the way that art acts as a rebellion against oppressive stereotypes and helps women find their self-identity adn define womanhood without social constraint. the readings in this unit show that individuality and social acceptance are conflicting, but both necessary, impulses for individuals of all races and cultures. I felt that Shepard’s play was the most expressive of the readings while Lourde’s was the most difficult to sustain interest because it seemed to switch uncomfortably between poetic language and the language of a manifesto.