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Motifs
Definition of Paradox
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Chapter 40
Explanation and Analysis—No Longer Black:
Ifemelu’s time in America acquaints her with a slate of puzzles and contradictions, like how racism is everywhere even though racists themselves have vanished from the public eye. Among these puzzles is the paradox Barack Obama presents. As Grace explains to the group in Chapter 40, one of the candidate’s inevitable challenges is his relation to the mainstream and the marginalized:
“Although if he wins, he will no longer be black, just as Oprah is no longer black, she’s Oprah,” Grace said. “So she can go where black people are loathed and be fine. He’ll no longer be black, he’ll just be Obama.”
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