You began as a thought fully formed and sprung from my head. No, you were more like a determined line of questions marching altogether toward a momentous thrashing.
-- Cornelius Adams (Control Negro)

Importance: This quotation shows the attitude that Professor Cornelius Adams, the narrator of “Control Negro” (1), holds towards his son, whose life he has observed from a distance. Adams’ characterization of his child first as a thought and then as a series of questions demonstrates that he views him as a concept rather than a person. At the same time, the dramatic and poetic nature of this description reveals the character’s excitement at explaining his son’s origins to him, which hints at a sense of fatherly pride.

But how can I know for sure? How does anyone know if they are getting more or less than they deserve?
-- Cornelius Adams (Control Negro)

Importance: This quotation is from Professor Adams’ narration as he struggles with his thoughts about...