Poem on Racism and Discrimination

Overview

This poem "Telephone Conversation" describes the problem of racism and discrimination faced by African people.

Racism and Discrimination

• Racism means discrimination based on the color of someone's skin.
• In Western countries, discrimination based on color against African people is common.
• African people face difficulties in renting homes, getting jobs, and doing business.

Telephone Conversation

• The rent negotiation between the speaker and the landlady takes place over the telephone.
• The landlady had already fixed the rent and location.
• The speaker clearly stated that he is African so that his trip would not be in vain.

Landlady's Reaction

• On the speaker revealing he is African, the landlady suddenly became silent.
• Her voice reflected harshness and discrimination.
• The landlady asked, "How black are you?" – this question surprised the speaker.

Questions about Skin Color

• The landlady repeatedly asked questions about the skin color: "Are you light or very dark?"
• The speaker humorously replied that his color is West African sepia (dark brown).
• The speaker also said that his palms and soles are white, and his buttocks have become black from sitting repeatedly.

Final Situation of the Poem

• The landlady became troubled and uncomfortable about the color.
• The conversation reached no conclusion and the landlady started to hang up the phone.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Racism (Racism) — Discrimination based on caste or color.
• Discrimination (Discrimination) — Bias or unfair behavior.
• Sepia (Sepia) — Dark brown color.
• Brunette (Brunette) — Dark brown color.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Read the lines of the poem and understand the main sentiment.
• Prepare personal thoughts related to racism.
• For the next lesson, read the biography of the poet of "Telephone Conversation".