Ralph Ellison Invisible Man Analysis

Ralph Ellison once made the brilliant reference to a street vendor’s yams in his fictional novel Invisible Man; he explained that the sweet smell emanating from the food is vividly reminiscent of his home and mother’s cooking. This nameless protagonist isn’t raised in a particularly opulent environment; nevertheless, his upbringing still creates within him a sense of comfort and appreciation. As I’ve transitioned into adulthood, I likewise have found and continue to find the importance in having an ever-present home. Throughout this maturation stage, my family has grown greatly and quickly; within the span of two years, we adopted three children. This proved on a deeper level that my childhood was extremely fortunate and is envied by millions
As a family, we welcomed Lucas without hesitation. Although we had hardly any space left in our home, we did not want to separate the three siblings, let alone allow for another child to be placed into the uncertain and often unsafe foster care system. We therefore adopted this baby when he was only two days old, and I received a fourth brother. Our family has since developed an even stronger passion for the institution of adoption. It is harrowing to see how many children today are unfamiliar with true, familial love because they were raised in a broken foster care system with minimal security. These three new siblings have taught me a plethora of lessons about being grateful for mere existence and family. They took the most basic elements of our lives and thoroughly redefined their importance. Prior to this expansion, I believed adopting was merely admirable. However, this experience has inspired me to reach out and show love to the unloved. I quickly learned that adoption is incredibly important and beautiful, no matter how much space it may take