“Black Man and White Woman in Dark Green Rowboat” is
about an interracial couple in a trailer community where everyone is focus on
their task, but their silence from seeing the couple together shows they are
secretly judging the scene. The white woman went on the boat with the black man
without saying a word in the presence of the trailer residents. However, once
away from the inhabitants, the story unravel to show that their relation is
somewhat problematic due to the two couple’s race. The woman told her lover
that the mother is okay with the relationship because she cares about her
daughter’s happiness. The young female also admit that if her father was alive,
he would have forbid the relationship because the young man is black. The man
fear that their racial differences and societies negative outlook on the issue
will cause more difficulties in the relationship. This becomes evident after
the couple parted ways upon returning from the river.
“Unthinkable” by Alicia Keys depict the
social issues of interracial relationship that is presented in the story. In
the video, Alicia Keys dates Chad Michael Murray, who is of the opposite race. Society
responded negatively to their romantic affair, even her family tried to prevent
their blossoming relationship from evolving. The lyrics to the song suggest
that she is ready to take a chance and follow her heart, regardless of societal
pressure to stay away from Murray. Both the story and the music video shows
that maintaining an interracial relationship is difficult, especially, when
society strive to hinder their love affair. In the video, Keys’ brother
confronted Murray about dating her, which is similar to the white woman saying that
her father hated black people. In contrast to the story, Keys is African
American while Murray is Caucasian.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhuGQUZJot8
Berose, I enjoyed reading this post and completely agree with the connection you developed. Interracial couples are often judged and looked down upon. Although it is more socially acceptable then it was years ago, some cultures still prohibit relationships outside of their own race. The couples in both the story and the song are greatly impacted by society’s limitations. In the story, the man is worn out by the judgments society makes about his relationship and decides it is best for both of them to part ways. In Alicia Key’s song, the white man is challenged by Key’s brother and is ordered to stop seeing her.
ReplyDeleteBerose, I think this was a wonderful comparison. The music video made a huge cultural impact and brought about the importance of cultural and social rejection to interracial couples. There was even a movie about it, called “Lakeview Terrace.” While it was never explicitly said in the movie that the antagonist hated the idea of a white man and a black woman, he did everything in his power to get them to leave or separate. It also goes to show that this view is not one-sided. It is not uncommon for many cultural people from different races to have unkindly views on any form of interracial relationships.
ReplyDeleteBerose, your piece is very well written and organized. After watching the music video, I can definitely see the connections with the short story. Honestly, I did not know the song "Unthinkable" by Alicia Keys was about race or maybe I did not pay close attention. But, after your post, thanks to the video, I am able to comprehend the song and your perspective, as well. In addition, society is tied in everywhere her. Using the short story to a popular media (society) to make connections. And, within the short story and song, societal pressure is evident everywhere. Again, I enjoyed your post!
ReplyDeleteBerose, this was an amazing comparison. I would have never have thought to compare “Black man and White woman in Dark Green Rowboat” to “Unthinkable.” I watched the music video for that song and your comparison became so vivid and clear. One can truly see the racial struggle that is seen between the couple in the video. I understand why you chose this song , I believe that the author wanted the audience to grasp the racial aspect of the short story along with the fact that the piece was about communication. Personally, I like this song, and to see it used in such a way, was enjoyable.
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