The Lower River
question
racist?
Rachel
Jan 12, 2014 08:09AM
Paul Theroux, Lower River
Well written but disturbing novel about Post Colonial Africa. The story was uncomfortable to read but riveting.
Most of the characters obviously are Black Africans and most are vile. Has anyone else read the book?
I am interested to know whether you think the black characters are racial stereotypes?
Well written but disturbing novel about Post Colonial Africa. The story was uncomfortable to read but riveting.
Most of the characters obviously are Black Africans and most are vile. Has anyone else read the book?
I am interested to know whether you think the black characters are racial stereotypes?
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Errr no. There wouldn't be much of a story if they were all really nice to him. I think it was believable enough. In that sort of environment, you have to fight for what you want, be that food, money or freedom from oppression. I think a little part of the villagers fear the white man. Yes, the villagers were selfish and greedy, but wouldn't you be the same if you didn't necessarily know where your next meal was coming from?
I loved the characterisation. It was a little bit scary, but some of the characters, particularly the females were lovely. I think that Hock was the bad man for exploiting the women in the way that he did. Shame on him!
I loved the characterisation. It was a little bit scary, but some of the characters, particularly the females were lovely. I think that Hock was the bad man for exploiting the women in the way that he did. Shame on him!
