Malcolm X and Mike Rose Comparison

Malcom X's "Learning to Read" and Mike Rose's "I just wanna be average," share a similar theme of overcoming a limited situation through hard work and somewhat unconventional education methods. While both narratives are, in part, intended simply to tell an encouraging story, they also have a separate agenda. They seek to persuade readers to see that there is something wrong in the world that should be corrected. In Malcolm X's day it was discrimination that limited his education and for Mike Rose it was the insufficiency of the American education system.

The authors portray themselves as sentimental characters brought down by their situations, who through hard work and determination are able to overcome stifling odds. They are both quick to admit their ignorance, but primarily blame it on their situation and not themselves. While their narratives do not seem disingenuous, this way of portraying themselves creates a greater admiration for the authors and attempts to increase their credibility. The primary angle of both narratives is to inform the reader of an unfair situation and encourages them to speak out against it.

While both narratives have their angles, Rose seems to stay on track in is narrative more than Malcolm X. The end of Malcolm X’s begins to transform into a rant, more than a continuation of the narrative. Rose’s article is also more relatable to modern readers and has a wider target audience. While very few have spent time in Charleston Prison, many have felt the frustrations of an unsatisfactory school system. It is also important to consider the time period in which these were written. Malcolm X lived in a time when discrimination was a core piece of American society, this provides a better understanding of the feeling of anger evident in his narrative.

These narratives differ in style and purpose; however, both are stories of overcoming disadvantages of their societies by means of unconventional education. Both were limited in their educational experiences and had to take initiative. While both narratives are encouraging of hard work and self-determination, they also attempt to point out a flaw in the system. While Rose’s format is perhaps more applicable, both are great examples of narratives with dual purposes.