"Theme for English B" begins with some words of a college professor instructing his students to write a paper that "will be true." After this is said the speaker questions if this assignment is really "that simple." As he reflects on his life before writing his assignment, he enlightens the reader of his current status in America. He is a mere "twenty-two, colored" college student; more importantly he is the "only colored student" in his class.
After approaching the "Harlem Branch Y," and returning to his apartment, the speaker begins his paper. He reflects on his life as an average twent…
