At one point in the book, Eunice and Polly discuss whether race or class shaped their hardships more profoundly. Did you better understand each woman’s perspective after this conversation? Did it shift your own view of race and class?
Both women had strong views on this issue and I felt they did come to understand each other better after this conversation. Eunice better appreciated her middle class upbringing after learning about Polly’s shocking and sad experiences after being sent out to raise money for the family at the age of 12. Eunice capped the conversation by stating Polly could change people’s view of her but Eunice could not change the color of her skin. However, Polly would have to move far away, change her appearance somewhat, and hope that she never ran in to someone from her past who would “out her” to her new community. Neither has the perfect life, but both are doing the best they can.
This was a very thought provoking discussion. I think they both had struggles but Eunice’s response that she can’t change the color of her skin and so will always face discrimination shut the conversation down in my opinion.
Both of these women have faced a struggle to get to where they are. Each struggle was unique, but equally difficult for them. Race, class and being female create difficult hurdles to overcome to become successful. It was true in 1936 and sadly still true today.