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An Analysis Of Angela Johnson's 'First Part Last'

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An Analysis Of Angela Johnson's 'First Part Last'
First Part Last essay
Angel Redman
“And then I know I’m being a man. Not just some kid who’s upset and wants it his way. I’m being a man.” Angela Johnson is the author of First Part Last. The main character is Bobby, who has a baby at 16, with Nia. Bobby represents growing up and shows how childhood is too short. In the story we see how Bobby grows up and matures.

Bobby puts down the basketball and it rolls away. This represents his childhood, leaving him. He has to leave his childhood, because he has to take on the responsibilities of becoming a parent. Bobby doesn't want his childhood to leave him, but it must. Bobby must become a responsible adult.

The bubble gum represents childhood and shows how Bobby and Nia are growing

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