Born In Sin

Born in Sin
Theme is a concept which minor characters play a role in. It can be related to all works of literature ranging from short stories to novels. Theme, which is sometimes used in the samesense as motif to signify recurring concepts in literature, refers mainly to the argument or general ideas. In the novel Born in Sin by Evelyn Colemantheme played a vital role in the stories generalsetup by the minor characters. 

Coleman’s theme is very specific; people no matter what their social background, strive for the same goals and experience the same feelings when something positive isachieved. This novel shows this theme throughout a detailed story line. These minor characters that are mentioned in the novel are Malik, Mr., Hakim and Clarissa. Mr. Hakim’s goal was basically to helppeople with their lives and issues they have, Keisha mentions that his job is a counselor: “He saves young women from a life of prostitution, mostly” (Coleman 235). This effects Keisha decision onwhether to confront her mother about her job, due to Mr. Hakim’s positive outlook on her mother situation Keisha makes the right decision and confront her mother. Through the support she got, Mr. Hakimreaches his goal. Similar to Mr. Hakim is Keisha’s crush, also known as Malik. He is a young boy (around age 15-17) that strives to resist all the temptations in getting money for his family and thefact that he is black will get him nowhere in life. Malik has a positive outlook towards life, just like Mr. Hakim and due to his positive outlook he helps Keisha not quit swimming, because she isalmost raped by Jeebie: “ them who?...Keisha…don’t let them win” (Coleman 228). 

Instead he shows her the way to a brighter future. Another minor character that does the same thing is Clarissa. In thenovel it is very rare that blacks and whites are friends due to the racism that occur, in the novel Clarissa proves this wrong because she becomes friends with Keisha. They also spend time with each...