“Black Men and Public Space”

In Brent Staples narrative essay “Black Men and Public Space” (1987) he finds himself annoyed and little bit bothered by the fearful response people give him in public. He believes that he is only getting this response because of his skin color. Brent’s purpose for writing this essay is to inform others of the racial tendencies that some people have towards black men. I believe the intended audience is anybody who stereotypes black men in a negative way.

I agree with author on the fact that black man whenever in public are met with fear from others because of stereotyping.  I think the author gave good examples of what actually happens to black men in public spaces. I also believe that the author is trying to make people who are unaware of this type situation more informed. I can appreciate the examples of precautions he gave in the passage; these can help black men be safe.  

The story starts with Staples telling us how he felt when he unintentionally scared a woman on the street. “I was surprised, embarrassed, and dismayed all at once.” (77). He came to the conclusion that women were really terrified by a menacing man at night. “That first encounter, and those that followed, signified that a vast, unnerving gulf lay between nighttime pedestrians-particularly women and me.” (78). Staples explains what influenced him not to act on violence as a child. “As a boy, I saw countless tough guys locked away: I have since buried several, too.” (79). He decided to just remain a stalker of the night and stay out of trouble. “I chose, to remain a shadow-timid, but a survivor”. (79).