Ann Petry's 1946 Novel The Street
Ann Petry's 1946 novel The Street is a powerful work of fiction that explores themes of race, gender, and class in mid-20th century America. Set in Harlem, the novel follows the struggles of Lutie Johnson, a young African American woman trying to make a better life for herself and her son Bub.
Plot Summary
The novel opens with Lutie moving into a run-down apartment on 116th Street with Bub. She is determined to find a job and provide a better life for her son, but she soon discovers that life on the street is harsh and unforgiving. She encounters a series of obstacles, including a predatory landlord, a lecherous neighbor, and a corrupt police officer.
Despite her best efforts, Lutie is unable to escape the poverty and violence that surrounds her. She is forced to confront the brutal realities of racism and sexism, as well as her own limitations as a single mother with few resources.
The novel ends with Lutie's realization that she may never be able to escape the street, and that her dreams of a better life may be forever out of reach.
Themes
The Street explores a number of important themes, including:
Racism
The novel depicts the pervasive racism that Lutie experiences in all aspects of her life. From the discrimination she faces in the job market to the violence and harassment she endures on the street, Lutie is constantly reminded that she is seen as inferior because of her race.
Sexism
Lutie's experiences also highlight the sexism that was prevalent in mid-century America. She is objectified and harassed by men at every turn, and she must navigate a world that is hostile to women who do not conform to traditional gender roles.
Class
The novel also examines the intersection of race and class, as Lutie is trapped in a cycle of poverty that is reinforced by systemic inequality. She is unable to access the resources and opportunities that would enable her to escape her circumstances, and her son is similarly limited by his background.
Impact and Legacy
The Street was a groundbreaking work of fiction when it was first published in 1946. It was one of the first novels to explore the experiences of African American women in such depth, and it helped to pave the way for other works of literature that focused on marginalized communities.
The novel has continued to be influential in the decades since its publication. It is often taught in college courses on African American literature, and it has been cited as an inspiration by a number of contemporary writers.
Conclusion
Ann Petry's The Street is a powerful and important work of fiction that explores the experiences of African American women in mid-20th century America. It is a searing indictment of the systemic racism and sexism that was prevalent during that time, and it continues to resonate with readers today.