Because the Criterion Channel’s streaming of this film adaptation ended at the end of July, I recently read the novel. (Interestingly, the film was made in Argentina, mainly because Hollywood wanted to take the race element out. Wright understandably refused.) To be honest, I almost stopped reading due to some lurid, pulpy elements and the ordeal the protagonist would face
The book follows Bigger Thomas, a young, poor black man who gets a job as a chauffeur for a wealthy, white family. In a lot of ways the novel is more of psychological examination of a certain type of individual and this relates to larger social issues. Like some of Spike Lee’s films, the story and, to some degree, characters seem like means to an end.
Here are a few random comments:
The examination of the Bigger’s inner thoughts and feelings is probably the most interesting and best parts of the novel for me. This made me skeptical of any film adaptation, although in other respects the material seemed well-suited for film noir. Actually, a graphic novel, with an artist like Frank Miller, might be a really good medium for the novel.
I also like the speeches near the end, which was my second favorite part of the novel. Ultimately, I don’t think I agree or completely understand all of Wright’s ideas and positions, but they were worth encountering.
The prose was just OK, and it was another thing that almost turned me away from the novel. My sense is that Wright’s prose improves when he delves into Bigger’s inner world, although at times it feels a little bombastic.
The Atlantic listed this as one of the great American novels. Is that it a worthy pick? I’m not sure, but I think it’s worth reading. Also, even if it’s not worthy of the American canon, it’s a good book for Americans to discuss, maybe especially in the present moment.
Native Son by Richard Wright
Because the Criterion Channel’s streaming of this film adaptation ended at the end of July, I recently read the novel. (Interestingly, the film was made in Argentina, mainly because Hollywood wanted to take the race element out. Wright understandably refused.) To be honest, I almost stopped reading due to some lurid, pulpy elements and the ordeal the protagonist would face
The book follows Bigger Thomas, a young, poor black man who gets a job as a chauffeur for a wealthy, white family. In a lot of ways the novel is more of psychological examination of a certain type of individual and this relates to larger social issues. Like some of Spike Lee’s films, the story and, to some degree, characters seem like means to an end.
Here are a few random comments:
The Atlantic listed this as one of the great American novels. Is that it a worthy pick? I’m not sure, but I think it’s worth reading. Also, even if it’s not worthy of the American canon, it’s a good book for Americans to discuss, maybe especially in the present moment.