REVIEW SHORT STORY : THE LESSON

 

Tittle                            : The Lesson

Author                          : Toni Cade Bambara

Year of Publication      : 1972

“The Lesson" is a short story told by Sylvia, a young girl from underprivileged New York. One day, Sylvia and her community went to toy store with well educated Miss Moore. There, they saw expensive items that none of their families can afford. The purpose of the trip, as Miss Moore explains, is to expose the children to a world of wealth and privilege that is drastically different from their own. So Miss Moore hopes to teach the children a lesson about the economic disparities that exist in society and to challenge them to think critically about these inequalities.

In the end, Sylvia admitted that there was no justice and inequality in the world. She also felt frustrated in facing the reality.

Pros

·      Social Commentary: The story gives a strong commentary on social and economic inequality in America. It's making an intriguing piece for readers to reflect with the story.

·      Emotional Impact: "The Lesson" has emotional impact for readers. It’s about empathy and a sense of injustice, that can understand of the story. As a reader, I can feel what characters feel in the story. I can feel how if I don’t get a justice in my place.

·   Discussion Starter : The story serves the discussion about justice, education, and economic inequality. It persuades readers to share their opinion or their perspectives. 

Cons

·      Lack of Resolution: "The Lesson" ends without a clear resolution, so some readers may feel unsatisfying with the end of story.

For me, “The Lesson” is a good story. The story reminds us about how important of knowledge. If we have much knowledge, we will recognize social and economic disparities.