Ralph Ellison Research Paper

American literature has been revolutionized by the distinct writing styles of many including: Ralph Waldo Emerson, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Ellison. Famous literary works have remained in society since their creation while impacting the lives of its readers and many alike. An essential aspect of literature in America in the twentieth century was racism and segregation. The writer that best represented the cause and exemplified equality of the people is Ralph Ellison. He was able to provide a different perspective, from the eyes of an African American, to the public. Ellison’s diverse background directly contributed and influenced his writing style as well as enhanced the literary devices found in his various,

His distinct background led to many great works and writings espousing the equality of man found in society today. Ellison was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on March 1, 1914. His namesake, Ralph Waldo Emerson, was a renowned journalist/poet. After losing his father when he was three, his mother raised him as well as his younger brother, Herbert. SInce the day of his birth, his first love was music. He chose to attend the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, opting to study to become a symphony composer. The first real exposure to writing that Ralph experienced was with his work at the New York Federal Writers Program. With the mentorship of writers such as Alan Locke, Langston Hughes, Richard Wright, and Kenneth Burke, Ralph’s talent as a journalist continued to develop. In the The Rites of Identity, it is argued “that Kenneth Burke was the most deciding influence on Ralph Ellison's writings, that Burke and Ellison are firmly situated within the American tradition of religious naturalism, and that this tradition--properly understood as religious--offers a highly useful

It is a book that describes the life of an African American man in a time of segregation in America. The story is set in New York City and touches on the various social and intellectual issues facing all of the blacks early in the twentieth century. Ellison’s publication perfectly embodied the daily routine of African Americans where often, they are disregarded or “invisible.” The protagonist, the narrator, often cites the refusal of others to see him, which has led to him participating in an underground, unsocial life. The story proceeds to offer a gander into the struggles that he faces while trying to live a just life in Harlem. However, he says that he has remained underground since his troubles with a group called the Brotherhood. Most importantly, he decides that unlike others of his color, he is ready to emerge from the background. Ellison has been recognized by many newspapers and magazines for the artistry in his writing of this book. Some of the various awards given to the book include the National Book Award (1953) and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Special Achievement Award (1992). Ralph often used a number of literary devices to enhance the book. Symbolism, imagery, and allegories were just a few of them found among the text. A popular example of symbolism found is the company that the narrator works for as his first job. The paint company was called Liberty Paints and it was known for its Pure White paint color.