Invisible Man Chapter 4

Golden Day

The ________ represents a microcosm of American society from a black perspective, and the shell- shocked veterans represent black men unable to function in the real world as a result of the brutal treatment received at the hands of racist whites.

Supercargo

________ not only literally carries his human cargo- the vets- from the hospital to the Golden Day each week; he also symbolizes the collective psychological burden or cargo (guilt, shame, pain, humiliation) of black men, which is why he invokes so much hatred.

The two chapters also challenge us to consider what is more normal

A bar in which crazy people, openly expressing their feelings, dare to challenge a corrupt system that denies them the right to lead dignified, productive lives; or a college that fosters and perpetuates the racist myth of white supremacy, while purporting to prepare its black students to become productive members of society

apprehensive

quick to understand

stroll

walk leisurely and with no apparent aim

welfare work

an organized activity to improve the condition of disadvantaged people in society

denounce

announce the termination of, as of treaties

unashamed

used of persons or their behavior; feeling no shame

dormitory

a large sleeping room containing several beds

gatepost

either of two posts that bound a gate

compulsion

an irrational motive for performing trivial or repetitive actions, even against your will