What is Racism?
Racism is the belief that one’s race, skin color, or more generally, one’s group, be it of religious, national or ethnic identity, is superior to others in humanity. Discrimination arises from such beliefs, and can be institutionalized or expressed through individual actions. Racism is contrary to the ideals of community, equality, respect for all persons and justice.
Was Shel Silverstein Racist?
Shel Silverstein was an American writer, poet, and cartoonist whose books typically explore and celebrate the perspectives of children. Best known for his beloved Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, Silverstein has been generally regarded as a well-respected and beloved writer who wholeheartedly valued innocent exploration, imagination, and play.
However, in some cases, scholars and independent researchers have found lines and illustrations that challenge this assumption. Some of his stories, poems, and cartoons contain references to disturbing themes such as racism, violence, and other forms of bigotry.
One example is the un-illustrated poem “Chili,” the second poem from Silverstein’s very first collection Where the Sidewalk Ends. Two lines of the poem seem to be describerbed as racist. It states “When things got so hot, I heard them say/Sell Mexican chilli and go away.” This has been said to be Silverstein painting Mexicans as an inferior race who are incapable of making contributions to society.
Another example is in his book Bannana Pudding. On one page there is a drawing of a young African American girl with big eyes, which has been criticized as perpetuating racial stereotype. Similarly, another illustration in the same book featuring a racially ambiguous boy with a drawn-on face shaped in stereotypically exaggerated form has been said to make fun of people of color.
In addition, some of Silverstein’s stories have been said to suggest themes of sexism, homophobia, and other forms of intolerance. Silverstein’s poem “Two-Headed Ox” appeared in his A Giraffe and a Half collection and featured a man in a tutu and a circus. Many readings of the poem can be interpreted to suggest that the main character is a gay man and silverstein attempts to make him a laughing stock.
Analysis and Relevance of Silverstein’s Elements of Racism
Overall, it is difficult to determine whether Silverstein was consciously or unconsciously promoting racism and other forms of bigotry in his writing. Though some of the accusations appear to be well reasoned, it is important to note that some of these instances can also be interpreted in different ways. For example, while some may read the lines in “Chili” to be portraying Mexicans as an inferior race, other may see the poem as an effort to criticize the economic inequality that exists in America that prevents certain people from achieving success.
As such, it can be argued that these instances of racism in Silverstein’s writing may simply be reflections of the habits and attitudes of societal norms in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Though it was certainly not acceptable at the time to openly express any form of discrimination, many people at the time did harbor such views and wrote them in subtle, often uncomfortable ways.
Though not all of Silverstein’s content is controversial, it is important for readers to familiarize themselves with and understand the potential undertones of racism and other forms of discrimination in the material they consume. While a few controversial lines or illustrations may not define an entire work, they certainly do contribute to the overarching themes and should never be ignored.
Analysis of Other Controversial Portrayals
In addition to Silverstein’s works, many other authors have been accused of similar practices. Some, such as Lewis Carroll, JK Rowling and the Brothers Grimm, are well-respected, acclaimed authors whose works still remain beloved and praised among readers, despite a few controversial lines and illustrations. Others, such as Rudyard Kipling, have had their entire body of work challenged for its complete failure to address racism and otherist themes. In his book The White Man’s Burden, for example, Kipling blatantly pushes the ‘white man’s burden’ narrative, promoting the idea that colonized countries were in need of Europe’s benevolent guidance.
Still yet others, such as Mark Twain, have escaped almost all form of criticism due to the clever way they can cleverly conceal racist messages behind witty words.
Modern Portrayals and Reflections
It is important to note that despite their popularity, the works of Silverstein, Kipling and others are far from perfect. Gone are the days when authors and illustrators could get away with portraying racism and other forms of discrimination in their materials without any form of reprisal or public condemnation.
In recent times, minority and marginalized groups have made great strides in calling out problematic texts and replacing them with stories and illustrations featuring diverse, relatable characters. Even today, authors and illustrators continue to be held responsible for their work and the message it conveys.
The Legacy of Shel Silverstein
Though not all of Shel Silverstein’s work is free from racism, his lasting legacy and positive contributions to literature should not be overshadowed. From his collection A Light in the Attic to the beloved cartoon series The Giving Tree, Silverstein’s works still remain widely popular even today.
At the end of the day, it is important to bear in mind that irrespective of any underlying meanings, Shel Silverstein was an innovator and an inspiring storyteller who contributed immensely to the field of literature and helped to shape the childhoods of many.
Factors to Consider When Discussing Racism in Literature
When discussing racism in literature, it is important to consider the historical context in which the work was created. Many authors of the past wrote under different circumstances and with different standards. It is also important to note that certain terms and phrases that may come off as insensitive today may have been accepted as normal at the time.
It is also important to note that certain forms of racism are more overt and explicit, while others are more subtle or implied; therefore, it is important to look for both overt and subtle messages when evaluating works. Lastly, it is essential to remember that no single author’s works can be used to accurately evaluate their overall values or beliefs.
The Role of the Anti-Racism Movement
The anti-racism movement has played a vital role in calling attention to racism in literature and other forms of media. By spreading awareness, galvanizing collective action and standing up for the rights of marginalized people, the anti-racism movement has helped to create a space for dialogue and reflection on racism, white supremacy and its connection to literature.
The anti-racism movement has also been a powerful force in pushing authors, publishers and other media outlets to be more mindful of the messages they are spreading. Through campaigns, calling out offensive material and sparking open conversations on race, the anti-racism movement has been a great force of good in encouraging a more inclusive and accepting representation of diverse people in literature.
