The basis of my presentation is evaluating
how the novel Push by Sapphire
portrays the identity of African Americans and whether it can be considered a
sympathetic or negative outlook on their culture and history.
One of the main criticisms of the novel is
its constant barrage of unfortunate events piled onto the character of
Precious. The theme of sexual abuse is something personally experienced by the
author Sapphire, however by making Precious illiterate, pregnant, poor and
overweight as well, the novel is deemed by many to be reinforcing a stereotype
rather than making an effort to prove it wrong. Many critics have disapproved
of the novel and the 2009 film adaptation, describing it as an exaggerated look
on the race and comparing it with the backlash that a similar novel, The Colour Purple by Alice Walker,
received at its release in 1982.
However there are many who believe Push is hugely successful in revealing
the complexities of African American identity. This is a novel that can be
interpreted as an ‘American Dream’ story; Precious has everything in the world
going against her but still has the courage and ambition to make an effort to
turn her life around in the smallest ways possible. I will be asking the group
on whether they interpret the novel as a tragedy or a success story, and
furthermore whether they believe the influence of the story to be a success or
a failure.
Questions to consider:
Does the novel have a sympathetic or negative
outlook on African Americans?
What does the future hold for the character
of Precious Jones in modern society/What would the next chapter be?
Do you view this novel as a success story or
a tragedy?
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