The Power of One Race Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

Before my life started properly, I was doing the usual mewling and sucking, which in my case occurred on a pair of huge, soft black breasts. (1.2)

This very first appearance of any character other than the narrator himself links him forever to black Africa. Though he is referring specifically to his Nanny, this image could be expanded to relate to audiences that Peekay was a true child of Africa; the continent nursed him as an infant to grow into the boy we follow through the story. This also connects to the moment when Peekay will meet Gabriel, Nanny's son, whose mother he effectively stole from him.

Quote #2

"The Jew is late. Who does he think he is?" Mevrou said impatiently. She half turned and addressed the African playing the Jew's harp. "Hey, kaffir! Where is the baas?" (4.31)

Mevrou gives a wide display of the various racisms she carries within her all in one fell swoop. However, she is neither the first nor the last character in the novel to use this kind of hateful language. Be sure to not follow this teacher's example, kids.

Quote #3

Klipkop examined his hand. "They got heads made of blery cannon balls." He grinned. "I'm learning, man, notice I didn't hit him this time with my fist." He turned to me. "Always remember, when you hit a kaffir, stay away from his head. You can break your fist on their heads, just like that. Hit him in the face, that's orright, but never on the head, man." (10.123)

The sad thing about this moment is that Klipkop is showing just how much thought he's put into beating black people, and also that he's willing to shamelessly share his conclusions.