Just an example I wrote from the first topic, from the memo. To explain how I would write it in the
contracts of the given topic. Maybe this will help maybe not. At least I tried
The Complex Fear of Tsotsi Towards Boston: An Exploration of Daily Life, the Past, Dark and Light,
and Crime and Decency
Introduction:
In the acclaimed novel "Tsotsi" by Athol Fugard, the protagonist, Tsotsi, exhibits a complex and
palpable fear of Boston, a character who represents a stark contrast to Tsotsi's own life. This essay
will delve into the reasons behind Tsotsi's apprehension, examining various aspects such as daily life,
the past, dark and light, and the dichotomy between crime and decency. By analyzing these
elements, we can understand the deep-rooted fear that Boston instills in Tsotsi.
Daily Life:
Tsotsi leads a life entrenched in poverty and crime, surviving through thievery and violence. His
existence is fraught with constant danger, as he navigates the treacherous slums of Johannesburg. In
contrast, Boston is depicted as a well-educated, respectable man who lives in a clean and orderly
environment. Tsotsi's fear stems from the stark contrast between his own chaotic and precarious
lifestyle and the stability and orderliness that Boston represents.
The Past:
Tsotsi's past is shrouded in darkness, haunted by a history of abuse and neglect. He grew up in a
brutal and unforgiving environment, which shaped him into the hardened criminal he has become.
Boston, on the other hand, serves as a reminder of a different path Tsotsi could have taken. Boston's
peaceful demeanor and his connection to his own past, which contrasts sharply with Tsotsi's own
painful memories, invoke a fear of confronting his own inner demons.
Dark and Light:
Symbolically, Tsotsi represents darkness, embodying the depths of human depravity. In contrast,
Boston is associated with light, representing goodness, morality, and enlightenment. This
juxtaposition creates a palpable fear within Tsotsi, as he is acutely aware of his own darkness and
the stark contrast it poses to Boston's light. Tsotsi fears that Boston's presence will expose the true
nature of his actions and force him to confront the consequences of his criminal lifestyle.
Crime and Decency:
Tsotsi's fear of Boston is rooted in the fear of being exposed as a criminal. Boston's decency and
integrity serve as a constant reminder of Tsotsi's own lack thereof. Tsotsi is aware that Boston
represents everything he is not—honesty, compassion, and the ability to lead a lawful life. Boston's
very existence threatens Tsotsi's fragile sense of self, as it forces him to confront the moral
bankruptcy of his own actions.
Conclusion:
Tsotsi's fear of Boston stems from a myriad of factors, including the contrasting daily lives, the
haunting past, the dichotomy between dark and light, and the juxtaposition of crime and decency.
These elements serve to amplify Tsotsi's anxieties and create a sense of impending doom. As the
narrative unfolds, Tsotsi must confront this fear, and in doing so, grapple with his own identity and
the choices that have shaped his life. Through Tsotsi's journey, Fugard presents a profound
exploration of the human condition, highlighting the consequences of a life steeped in crime and the
capacity for redemption.