Summary

Chapter 16. In Chapter 14, Maniac questions why the East Enders call themselves black. The question presents itself again as Maniac is termed “blind” because of his failure to understand the tensions that exist around him. He doesn’t understand age or racial discrimination and is confused by the premise of skin color. The end of the chapter culminates with an allusion to the fact that Maniac is about to understand discrimination.

Chapter 17. It’s a hot August day and an open fire hydrant on the corner of Green and Chestnut cools Maniac and his neighbors. As they enjoy the water, a loud voice is heard above the crowd. The voice comes closer to Maniac and he is face to face with a black man pointing straight at him. The man calls Maniac “Whitey” and tells him that he needs to go home. Maniac calmly tells the man...