Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man

by James Weldon Johnson

Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man: Motifs 1 key example

Definition of Motif

A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—Anonymity:

Anonymity is a motif in the novel. For example, in Chapter 7, the narrator introduces one character simply as "the rich widow":

This woman was known at the “Club” as the rich widow. She went by a very aristocratic sounding name, which corresponded to her appearance.