the lesson

Bambara’s, “The Lesson”, illustrates the story of children growing up in poverty and how one person can make a huge difference in their lives. How one person creates an environment to help children not only discover, but succeed in learning some very important issues about the world around them. Education for children in poverty stricken neighborhoods, such as the main character, Sylvia’s, proves itself difficult to acquire, however is essentially the best way to move beyond poverty; shown by the way of role models, attitudes towards others, first impressions, exposure, realizations, and the teacher. Sylvia and Sugar, who are best friends and also cousins, share in the experiences and lessons taught by Miss Moore. Miss Moore, the primary resource of education for both girls and several other children during the story, was the only educated female in the neighborhood. She faced many adversities but managed to teach the children a life lesson. Most parents know education is essential but sometimes fail to provide it for their children. Parents who live in poverty stricken neighborhoods are not always the best role models for their children. At times they are even displeased towards role models like Miss Moore in their own communities for no apparent reason. Sylvia notices this type of treatment when she hears the adults speaking about Miss Moore “behind her back like a dog”. As the children hear their parents talk bad about Miss Moore, their attitudes towards education and educators change. Early on, Sylvia and Sugar display negative attitudes toward Miss Moore. First impressions are vital for children like Sylvia. Miss Moore brings the children to downtown New York for a field trip to FAO Schwarz, for one of her lessons. After arriving, the children react to the people around the area dressed in fancy clothes, this being their first impression. Sugar asks Miss Moore, “Can We Steal?” when they are nearing FAO Schwarz toy store. This would be a no