In Ann Petry's novel The Street, even the simplest everyday objects take on diabolical personalities and shape-shifting aspects and threatening. From the cruel wind of the story's first chapter to the harsh and bitter street itself, the blatant situational cruelty and injustice bring bright colors to the narrative. Even the walls, as Petry describes it, “stretched toward her—leaned and swayed toward her in an attempt to envelop her.” (The Street 12) This haunted woman protagonist, Lutie Johnson, is a perfect example. Facing more than just the challenges of an economically disadvantaged single mother, widespread discrimination places Lutie at a severe societal disadvantage, while an atmosphere of unabashed chauvinism subjects her to repeated exploitation and disrespect. Aspects of race and gender, although only obstacles due to tragically backward social norms and systemic inequalities, become increasingly internalized over the course of the novel. As her own perceptions and actions toward the outside world begin to become perverted and distorted, Lutie's race and gender function as both inner and outer demons, providing a volatile context for her life as a woman, a provider. and mother. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Lutie's perceptions as an adult woman, both sexually and socially, range from inappropriate to predatory. These prejudices sometimes manifest themselves in confusing, but nevertheless deeply cutting, misconceptions, as Petry bitterly reflects: “Apparently, it was an automatic reaction of white people – if a girl was colored and young enough, well, he was going to self that she must have been a white girl. prostitute” (La Rue 44). While this may seem like a resentful exaggeration, the behavior of the men, white and otherwise, around her gives the impression of a more literal translation. From Mr. Crosse, who sees Lutie's audition for his singing school as an opportunity to extort sexual favors in exchange for free signing lessons, to William Jones, the manager of her building, who violently attempts to rape her as she came home from work. , the men in Lutie's life view her as a mere sexual object, to be attained by any means necessary or available. It is this pattern that causes Lutie to survive in constant fear and barely suppressed anger, depriving her of her security at home and her opportunities throughout her life. Unable to find companionship based on mutual respect and affection, she has no choice but to isolate herself emotionally after the collapse of her marriage. This alienation, coupled with a growing culture of violence, ultimately plays a crucial role in pushing Lutie toward the most life-changing decision in the novel: the brutal murder of Boots Smith. Another factor of constant frustration throughout Lutie Johnson's life was the economic disadvantage imposed on African Americans by endemic discrimination in the job market. Much of her misfortune begins when her husband is unable to find work, no matter how hard he tries. The reason for this curious lack of employment is summed up sadly by Petry: “It all amounted to the same thing, she decided: white people” (The Street 206). In times of economic hardship, white men received clear preferential treatment in terms of work quality and availability. Even when African Americans were tenacious and fortunate enough to find work, the work was degrading, humiliating. In..