Frederick Douglas blames the recognition of an independent, free, and hypocritical commitment to government loyalty as an inhuman mockery. He often refers to the fact that not all people living in America have the equal freedoms that every American should have. The author writes in an autobiographical style, referring to added pieces from documents, letters, and footnotes. Thus, he seems to want to establish the reliability of events from different angles and beliefs, including every fragment. For example, Douglas says: “<…> they refused to work with me, and of course, I couldn’t get a job.” At the same time, without interrupting the primary narrative, he makes a note about the cynical society policy. He says: “I was told that colored people can now get a job in New Bedford as a coiner” (Douglas, 1845). Douglas’s speech is very emotional; he asks many rhetorical socially oriented questions and calls for deep reflection on his explanation of the shadowed part of society.
Douglas carefully and consistently confirms his step to be heard and understood. He deliberately puts a lot of words in italics to draw the attention of white citizens to the bitter feelings of people with fewer privileges. The text is deeply personal and vulnerable, calling for attention and carefully considered. Throughout the text, one can notice the frequently used name of the author himself. It appears like Douglas just wants to be heard and publically declares himself as a free and consequential spirit with a name, ideals, and free destiny. The touching message at the end is accompanied by a signature as a last attempt to draw attention to his words and be represented as a real person through the letter.
Work Cited
Douglas, F. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass An American Slave. NO. 25 CORNHILL, 1845.