already discredited difference; to maintain its invisibility through silence is to allow the black body a shadowless participation in the dominant cultural body” (321).Overall, Morrison argues that the aforementioned contribution of African-Americans to society should be studied and respected. She goes on to say, “the contemplation of this black presence is central to any understanding of our national literature,” (310). In looking closely at “blackness,” one will discover his or her “whiteness” (311). I strongly feel that studying the African-American experience in literature will greatly change or shape society and help all Americans learn about their history. The connection between all Americans, whether black or white, will encourage pride and a true knowledge about the black experience. If we achieve this, we may achieve “a deeper, richer, more complex life than the sanitized one commonly presented to us” (322).Morrison, Toni. “Black Matters.” Falling into Theory. Ed. Richter. 2nd ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2000. 310-322.Faulkner, William. “A Rose for Emily.” The Compact Bedford Induction to Literature. Ed. Michael Meyer. 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/ St. Martin’s, 2000. 71-77. ...
