Equal Opportunity by Walter Mosley
"Equal Opportunity" is a narrative centered on Socrates Fortlow, an ex-convict seeking employment in a marginalized community. The story unfolds in Watts, where Socrates, having a troubled past marked by violence, faces significant barriers due to his criminal record and societal perceptions. Despite these challenges, he displays resilience and determination as he applies for a job at a supermarket located miles away from his home. Socrates confronts discrimination when the store manager dismisses him based on his lack of a phone, illustrating the systemic obstacles many individuals face in the job market. His persistence leads him to return repeatedly, attempting to advocate for his right to a fair chance at employment. Ultimately, Socrates's efforts are rewarded when he is redirected to a more understanding manager who is willing to "give guys a chance." The story highlights themes of redemption, the quest for dignity, and the importance of second chances, resonating with broader discussions about equity and opportunity in society.
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Equal Opportunity by Walter Mosley
Excerpted from an article in Magill’s Survey of American Literature, Revised Edition
First published: 1998 (in Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned)
Type of work: Short story
The Work
In “Equal Opportunity,” ex-con Socrates Fortlow, the main character in the linked stories that make up the novel Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned, tries for a job at a supermarket miles from his home in Watts. Twenty-seven years ago, Socrates killed two of his friends with his big hands. He travels to Venice Boulevard to apply for a job because he knows that he is considered a bum at the stores in his neighborhood, where he has been selling empty bottles to support himself. At the supermarket, he refuses to accept that his failure to have a phone, according to the white manager, disqualifies him from a job. He comes back four days in a row to see if he has been hired. He is told if he comes back on Monday, the police will be called.
Socrates returns on Monday and explains to two private security officers that he has not threatened anyone and feels he should be given a fair chance at a job. Socrates says that if the manager is scared, it is because she has not treated him fairly. The security officers decide he should get a job at the Santa Monica store since the manager there wants to “give guys a chance.” Back in his neighborhood, Socrates and his friends celebrate his new job.
Bibliography
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