The point to be made from the book A Homemade Education is that only determination and a willingness to educate can provide a person with actual knowledge that can be used. This work is a kind of memoir by Malcolm X, recounting his struggle in the quest for knowledge. The process of self-education, the pursuit to which he committed everything, began while Malcolm served a prison sentence in Charlestown. There, he met a man named Bimbi, who became an example and inspiration to him on his path to knowledge. Malcolm’s later self-development allowed him to become one of the most famous and influential African Americans in U.S. history.
The work provides perspectives on his time’s various teaching methods and educational approaches from the perspective of an initially illiterate but very determined man. When the book was written, the problem of racism and rejection of other cultures in society was very acute (Malcolm X 127). Like any other member of the African American community, Malcolm experienced many hardships and often faced injustice. Thus, he began his journey of self-improvement when he realized that the book given to him in prison did not make sense (Malcolm X 122). He then turned the pursuit of knowledge into his primary ambition and set himself the goal of preparing himself for the prospects of the future – after all, acquiring knowledge is the best preparation.
Through self-study and a thorough examination of literature, Malcolm learned more about the history of his own people, the diversity of the races and cultures that inhabit America, and the violation of rights they experience. In prison, he also became interested in the activities and ideology of the Nation of Islam and its leader, Elijah Muhammad (Malcolm X 123). After the release, he joined the organization and rose to become one of its leaders afterward. Later it is difficult to underestimate his contribution to the struggle for the rights of Americans of African descent and Muslims.
Sometimes being in prison provides more educational opportunities than being free. After the release, Malcolm had the tools he needed to change his life and the lives of many others in America. His path to enlightenment, described in his memoir, commands respect for his determination and dedication to his self-determined goals. His dedication to overcoming adversity has made him an inspiring figure and enabled him to gain recognition and respect.
Work Cited
Malcolm X. “A Homemade Education.”The Mercury Reader. Ed. Sharon Walsh. Boston: Pearson (2005): 122-131. Web.