Unveiling Societal Hypocrisy: Dorothy Parker's Racial Commentary

Commentary, Pages 4 (828 words)

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Introduction

Dorothy Parker, a towering figure in American literature, skillfully blended humor with social commentary, making her one of the preeminent humorists of her generation. Infusing her works with strong liberal political opinions, Parker's short story "Arrangement in Black and White" delves into the pervasive issue of racial discrimination in early 20th-century America. This essay critically examines the narrative structure, characterization, and thematic elements of the story, aiming to unravel the layers of societal hypocrisy surrounding racial prejudices.

Parker's exploration of racial discrimination is set against the backdrop of a high-society party organized in honor of a black musician, Walter Williams.

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The intricacies of the plot unfold as the protagonist, a woman adorned with pink velvet poppies, maneuvers through the crowded room. Complications arise when she seeks an introduction to the black musician, leading to a dialogue that exposes the underlying racial tensions within the societal elite. The story's climax unveils the woman's true motive—to exploit the encounter for gossip and fame, highlighting the stark contrast between public facade and private beliefs.

Narrative Structure and Plot Elements

The exposition of "Arrangement in Black and White" sets the stage by introducing readers to the opulent setting of the party and the central figure—the woman with pink velvet poppies in her hair.

This initial glimpse into the high-society milieu establishes the context for the unfolding narrative. The complications emerge as the woman, driven by a desire to be associated with the black musician, navigates social intricacies, revealing the prevailing racial prejudices of the time.

Parker employs a sophisticated narrative structure, incorporating flashbacks to provide nuanced insights into the woman's relationship with her husband and his black nurse.

These flashbacks serve as windows into the broader societal landscape, where racial tensions permeate even the most intimate aspects of personal life. The external conflict within the story mirrors the larger societal conflict—prejudice against different skin colors clashing with the foundational belief in equality.

By adopting an observer-author approach, Parker invites readers to independently interpret characters' actions and motivations. This approach, combined with a vivid, pictorial presentation of scenes, encourages readers to engage actively with the narrative, fostering a deeper understanding of the societal intricacies at play.

Characterization of the Protagonist

The woman in "Arrangement in Black and White" is a complex character whose traits are revealed through indirect means, predominantly her speech and actions. Her dialogue, replete with oxymorons and informal markers, captures the ambivalence and internal conflict within her. Repetitions, colloquialisms, and deviations from linguistic norms underscore the emotional turbulence she experiences, offering readers a glimpse into her psyche.

Simultaneously, the woman's actions provide a layer of characterization that stands in stark contrast to her verbal expressions. Eager to be introduced to the black musician, her motives are driven more by a desire for social recognition than a genuine appreciation for his talent. The physicality of her handshake with Walter Williams and her overall body language convey an unspoken disdain, exposing the shallowness of her proclaimed admiration for black individuals.

The deliberate choice to designate her as "the woman" underscores her representational role—a conduit for exploring the broader societal attitudes prevalent at the time. This characterization technique reinforces the notion that the woman is not an isolated individual but a type, emblematic of those who publicly disavow racial prejudices while privately perpetuating them.

Author's Tone and Message

Parker's tone throughout the story maintains a familiar and ironic quality. The lack of formal indicators and the abundant use of metaphors and emotionally charged language create a tone that resonates intimately with readers. This familiarity serves to draw readers into the story while the irony underscores the dissonance between the woman's professed beliefs and her actual behavior.

The title, "Arrangement in Black and White," encapsulates the story's central irony by highlighting the societal divisions based on skin color. Despite the woman's assertions of admiration for black people, the title subtly exposes the underlying racial tensions. Parker's overarching message challenges readers to confront the hypocrisy inherent in racial discrimination during the tumultuous era of 20th-century America.

By skillfully weaving together narrative elements, characterization, and tone, Dorothy Parker creates a compelling narrative that transcends its immediate setting, urging readers to reflect on the broader implications of racial prejudices and societal hypocrisies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dorothy Parker's "Arrangement in Black and White" emerges not merely as a narrative exploring racial discrimination but as a profound commentary on the societal attitudes of early 20th-century America. The story, rich in complexity and nuance, challenges readers to unravel the layers of hypocrisy embedded in public declarations of equality while harboring discriminatory beliefs in private.

Through meticulous narrative craftsmanship, Parker compels readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the prevailing racial prejudices of the time. "Arrangement in Black and White" stands as a testament to Parker's ability to use humor and irony as powerful tools for social critique, inviting readers to engage critically with the narrative and consider its implications in the broader context of American history.