The Autobiography of an Ex-colored Man: an Issue of Race Related Shame

The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man: An Issue of Race-Related Shame

James Weldon Johnson’s The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man presents a complex exploration of race, identity, and the internalized shame that accompanies the protagonist's struggle between two worlds. The unnamed narrator, who possesses the ability to “pass” as a white man, navigates a life fraught with contradictions and societal pressures. This essay delves into the intricate dynamics of race-related shame, the impact of white hegemony on the psyche of people of color, and the protagonist's internal monologues that reflect his conflicted identity.

The Duality of Identity

From an early age, the narrator experiences the weight of racial identity and the societal expectations that accompany it. His childhood is marked by a tendency to align himself with white peers, often at the expense of his own racial identity. This inclination is evident in a particularly troubling memory where he recalls chasing black children and pelting them with stones. Such actions reveal the internalized racism that permeates his upbringing and foreshadow his later struggles with identity and belonging.

Upon the realization of his own blackness, the narrator faces profound distress. He is acutely aware that he can no longer associate with white cliques, yet he simultaneously distances himself from the black community. This self-imposed isolation highlights the early development of his internal conflict, which continues to evolve throughout his life. Even as an adult, he exhibits subtle discriminatory behaviors towards people of color, illustrating the pervasive nature of white supremacy in shaping his worldview.

Shame and the Impact of Violence

The turning point in the narrator's internal struggle occurs when he witnesses a brutal act of violence: the burning murder of a black man. Rather than responding with empathy or horror, he experiences “a great wave of humiliation and shame.” This moment catalyzes a deeper internalization of his perceived inferiority as a black man and solidifies his decision to reject his racial identity. The emotional turmoil he experiences serves as a poignant reflection of the psychological toll that systemic racism inflicts on individuals within marginalized communities.

Moreover, the narrator's reactions to the people he encounters further reveal his internalized biases. While he displays condescension towards black churchgoers and speakers, he simultaneously elevates white individuals, particularly a wealthy millionaire whom he reveres. This pattern of glorifying white figures is particularly evident in his descriptions of women, where he attributes celestial qualities to white women while relegating black women to mere descriptions of prettiness or charm.

Hierarchy of Whiteness

The narrator’s admiration for whiteness is starkly contrasted with his views on blackness. He describes his future wife in almost divine terms, equating her whiteness with purity and goodness. Phrases like “as white as a lily” and “the most dazzlingly white thing I had ever seen” exemplify his tendency to associate whiteness with virtue and beauty. This glorification not only reinforces the societal hierarchy of race but also illustrates the detrimental effects of internalized racism on the narrator’s self-perception and relationships.

Consequences of Internalized Racism

The narrator's internalized shame and desire for whiteness are not unique to him but rather reflect a broader cultural phenomenon. As he observes, individuals of color, especially those who are wealthy or educated, often seek partners with lighter complexions. This tendency can be attributed to the societal pressures that prioritize whiteness as a marker of success and desirability. The following table illustrates the correlation between skin tone and perceived social capital:

This hierarchy of colorism highlights the insidious nature of white hegemony and its ability to shape the aspirations and identities of people of color. The narrator’s desire to escape the stigma of blackness is emblematic of a larger struggle faced by many individuals within marginalized communities.

Conclusion

In The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man, James Weldon Johnson masterfully illustrates the complexities of race-related shame and the profound impact of white hegemony on the psyche of individuals of color. The narrator’s internal monologues serve as a powerful reflection of the societal pressures that dictate notions of worth and belonging. Ultimately, his journey underscores the pervasive influence of systemic racism, revealing how deeply ingrained societal beliefs can distort one’s self-image and relationships. The themes explored in this narrative remain relevant today, as individuals continue to grapple with the lasting effects of racial identity and societal expectations.

References:

• Johnson, James Weldon. The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man. New York: Viking Press, 1912.
• Du Bois, W.E.B. The Souls of Black Folk. Chicago: A.C. McClurg & Co., 1903.
• Harris, Angela P. "Race and the Politics of Identity." Harvard Law Review, vol. 103, no. 7, 1990, pp. 1752-1768.