so what are you anyway

Conflicting Setting in “So What Are You Anyway?” For many years, African Americans have endured the oppression of white superiors, but have put up a great fight for emancipation. Over time, the segregation that once existed has diminished, but continues to live on in the minds of some. In Lawrence Hills, “So What Are You Anyway”, the setting is a key contributor to the conflict of the story in regards to equality now being instilled into society, an innocent Carole being targeted and demeaned for the colour of her skin, and the intimidating, curious nature of the Nortons. Following the Civil Rights Movement in 1970, Toronto and many other nations were slowly progressing towards making the world a haven of equality and independence. Whites were learning to perceive and treat blacks as an equal, and blacks were savoring their newfound freedom. In the short story, the Nortons bombard Carole with ignorant remarks using a blunt, over confident tone, but fortunately, the other passengers on the plane defend Carole, showing their acceptance for coloured people during this era: “‘Don’t touch her,’ the stewardess says. ‘Who are these people?’ someone says from across the aisle. ‘Imagine, talking to a child like that, and in 1970!’ One woman sitting in front of Carole stands up and turns around. ‘Would you like to come and sit with me, little girl?’” (Hill, 40). Before the Civil Rights Movement was a time where blacks and whites were scornful enemies and those of colour were classified as lower class in comparison to whites. White people were wealthy and quickly obtained
Samaroo 2 power over blacks. This explains the Norton’s ignorance and their difficulty in accepting someone of a different race. They still believe that they are more powerful, considering they grew up despising coloured people. However, now that equality is being instilled into society, some are becoming embracing of mixed races, while others are finding difficulty complying with equality, like the