What does Coates say about the precarious nature of his specifically African American body?

The Body: What does Coates say about the precarious nature of his specifically African American body? What dangers does he cite that threaten the safety of his body? Examine the specific instances in which Coates describes his body, the violence enacted upon it, and his attempts to preserve his body and the bodies of loved ones. What explicit ideas about the perceived value of black life do these examples support?

The Dream: What, exactly, is the Dream as Coates describes it? Who is able to experience the Dream? What prevents Coates and his loved ones from realizing that same Dream? How does Coatess version of the Dream differ from other, idealized versions of the Dream favored by popular media, literature, and other outlets? Why might Coatess aversion to the Dream as it is traditionally conceived be difficult for Americans to accept?

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