Marginalization

Through the Pleasantrips group's violent behavior towards Vasili Ivanovich, the author explores the dangerous effects of marginalization on the minority individual. At the start of his journey with the group, Vasili Ivanovich's fellow travelers encourage him to join their conversations and games. As soon as he starts reading, they tell him "to put the book aside," and include himself in their noisy activities (81). Vasili Ivanovich obliges, unaware that the group has more cruel intentions. Their dynamic begins to shift once the leader distributes "sheet music with verses from the Bureau," for everyone to sing together (83). Because he is a poor singer, and cannot pronounce "German words clearly," Vasili Ivanovich decides to mouth the lyrics instead (83). Perceiving this as an act of defiance, the group leader forces Vasili Ivanovich to "sing solo" (84). The dictatorial figure's humiliation of Vasili Ivanovich, seems to grant the other group members license...