Malcom X

So far, Malcom X has been one of the best written books that we read this year. Although it isn't exactly the most interesting topic to read about, the writing makes up for it. So far, I have read chapters 1-3 and learned about Malcom X's origins. About how he felt he was "brainwashed" by society into feeling that no matter how hard they tried, blacks would never be as good as whites. For example, while staying in Lansing, Malcom experiences this racism from his english teacher, Mr. Ostrowski, when he describes his aspirations to become a lawyer. 

"Malcom, one of life's first needs is for us to be realistic. Don't misunderstand me, now. We all here like you, you know that. But you've got to be realistic about being a nigger. A lawyer--that's no realistic goal for a nigger. You need to think about something you can be...Why don't you plan on carpentry? People like you as a person--you'd get all kinds of work" (Haley 38). 

This quote shocked me in a way. It shows the outright superiority whites felt. Even though Malcom works harder, gets better grades, and is liked by all, he is still held back by the color of his skin. This passage also made me realize how far we have come. Society has become much more open to different races and although racism still exists and is still a huge problem, a lot has changed since Malcom's time.