Black Shadows Summary

Rawlings exposes the stereotypes assigned to African Americans, such as those who say they are carefree, gay, childish and untruthful. She feels that these are the only ways in which the black people can adapt to the injustice of their position in this country. She feels the black servant has only two weapons: he can make life miserable for his employer, and he can walk out; he can do these things even if there is a bond of affection. Rawlings feels that, at this time in history, the "Negroes" are not able to embrace the responsibilities that come with being free.

She tells of returning from a trip to a house, dirty, empty of food and alcohol, uncared for in any way, animals gone, and two servants who had done nothing but drain her of her belongings, while still being paid...