In Malcolm X’s memoir, Hair, Malcolm X makes a sudden change in tone at the end of the memoir. In this anecdote, Malcolm X described his experience of getting a “conk” (straightened hair) that many white males did at the time. The process delivered excruciating pain, but very stylish hair, which Malcolm X appreciated very deeply at the time. However, in the last two paragraphs of the story, Malcolm X talks about his realizations after this event and expresses his regret towards his actions and admits that he was brainwashed into believing that black people were considered inferior to white people. He considers his actions of getting a “conk” through the painful process was an act of self-degradation and could not believe he harmed his God-created body, in efforts to hide his identity.
By making this sudden change in tone, readers feel the clear distinction of how Malcolm X felt when he got the “conk” and many years afterwards when he regretted getting it. Malcolm X’s last paragraph of the memoir totally contradicted his emotions and reactions during the rest of the memoir and this technique emphasized Malcolm X’s finishing statements.
I really liked your response because it was organized properly and focused on one point at a time making it very easy for the reader to follow your points. I also liked your statement “By making this sudden change in tone, readers feel the clear distinction of how Malcolm X felt when he got the “conk” and many years afterwards when he regretted getting it”. It makes the reader think how different the young Malcom’s views are from the old Malcolm. Overall I really liked your response and your points and how you used your examples to back them up.
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