Born a Crime: a Reflection on Identity, Acceptance, and Language

Written by Trevor Noah, Born a Crime is an autobiography that offers a compelling reflection on the author's childhood experiences under the racist laws of apartheid. Throughout the book, Noah delves into the horrors and unfairness of racism, providing readers with a thrilling account of his journey to find his place in the world as a biracial individual. Born a Crime explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of language, ultimately teaching readers to be more understanding, socially responsible, and tolerant.

A Chameleon

One of the most captivating aspects of Noah's book is his discussion of being a chameleon. Despite being a person of color, which was illegal during apartheid, Noah identifies himself as black due to his upbringing and his fluency in various African languages (Noah 40). He vividly describes how his perception of race would change instantaneously depending on the language he spoke. This linguistic versatility allowed him to navigate dangerous situations, such as responding to a robber in their native language, instantly assimilating into their culture and avoiding harm (Noah 42-43). However, this ability to blend in came at a cost, as Noah struggled to fully understand his own identity. He was caught between the black and white communities, never fully belonging to either. This struggle highlights the complexity of racial identity and the challenges faced by individuals who do not fit neatly into societal categories.

Acceptance and Identity

The title of the book, "Born a Crime," speaks directly to Noah's unique position as living evidence of the "crime" his parents committed under apartheid. He was considered "too white" to be black and "too black" to be white (Noah 44). However, Noah did find a place where race seemed to be less significant – the Maryvale school. Here, children did not tease each other based on skin color but rather for more general reasons such as intelligence or physical appearance (Noah 44-45). For Noah, this acceptance was a rare experience, as he often felt like an outsider due to his skin color. Despite these challenges, Noah ultimately learns to embrace his identity and accept himself for who he is.

The Power of Language

Language plays a crucial role in Noah's story, particularly in the context of apartheid. Under this system, different languages were used to further oppress and divide people. White individuals were discouraged from learning African languages, perpetuating the notion that these languages were inferior (Noah 44). To secure prestigious employment opportunities, fluency in English was crucial. The African languages and their speakers were marginalized and considered enemies (Noah 43). However, Noah discovered that speaking to others in their native language allowed them to perceive him as one of their own, providing him with a sense of belonging and facilitating his escape from challenging situations. This highlights the power of language in shaping culture and identity. Language serves as a tool for unity and understanding, but it can also be used to marginalize and discriminate against certain groups.

Personal Reflection

As a bilingual individual, I can personally attest to the advantages and disadvantages of knowing two languages. Speaking multiple languages allows for greater understanding and connection with people from different cultures. It can also serve as a conversation starter and facilitate learning additional languages. However, there are challenges, such as struggling to speak at an appropriate level in professional settings or occasionally forgetting how to speak fluently in one language due to a lack of practice. Despite these challenges, the benefits of bilingualism outweigh the drawbacks, as it promotes cultural exchange and fosters empathy and understanding.

Impactful Stories

Throughout Born a Crime, Noah shares numerous impactful stories, but one that stands out is the episode where his mother throws him out of a moving car to save his life. The man driving them threatened to harm them, and Patricia, Noah's mother, made the split-second decision to protect her children (Noah 16). This incident showcases Patricia's incredible strength and wisdom. She demonstrated her resilience and resourcefulness, ensuring the safety of her children without causing them unnecessary panic. Patricia's character exemplifies Francian values, such as learning, reverence, and service. She taught Noah English and instilled in him the importance of education and following his dreams (Noah 51). Additionally, Patricia respected the dignity and worth of all individuals, including prostitutes, gangsters, and robbers. Despite facing adversity, she maintained her integrity and treated others with kindness and respect. Patricia's commitment to helping those in need, even when she had little to give, makes her an embodiment of Francian values.

Promoting Inclusivity

Born a Crime emphasizes the importance of living in diverse communities. Noah's experiences in all-black neighborhoods highlight how being the only person of a different race can lead to isolation and discrimination. However, when he found himself in more diverse environments, people began to accept him for who he was. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, society can move beyond judging individuals based on their race. The book challenges readers to recognize the harm caused by racial divisions and encourages them to strive for a more equal and tolerant world.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Born a Crime by Trevor Noah is a powerful autobiography that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of language. Through his personal experiences growing up under apartheid, Noah delves into the complexities of racial identity and the challenges faced by those who do not fit neatly into societal categories. Language plays a crucial role in Noah's story, highlighting its power to both unite and divide people. Furthermore, the book emphasizes the importance of living in diverse communities and promoting inclusivity to create a more equal and tolerant world. Overall, Born a Crime is a thought-provoking and inspiring memoir that teaches readers to be more understanding, socially responsible, and accepting.