“I am invisible, understand, simply because people refuse to see me.” This quote from ‘Invisible Man’ hit me like lightning. While reading the novel, I could imagine the pain of most Black Americans during that period. The pain of being unheard and unseen in a society that devalues Black identity.

 Invisible Man was written by Ralph Ellison, an African American writer, critic, and scholar. The novel was first published in 1952 by Random House in New York. It contains 439 pages and is divided into a prologue, 25 main chapters, and an epilogue. It was sold at the price of $3.50.

The novel is set in early 20th century America and follows a young, unnamed Black man who feels “invisible” in a society dominated by racism and inequality. As he moves from the South to Harlem, we see his journey through different roles, as a student, worker, and political speaker. Each role highlighting the limitations society places on his identity. Several themes are explored, including racial injustice and identity. 

One moment that truly shocked me was the Battle Royal scene, which showed how humiliation is sometimes disguised as opportunity. Ellison carefully balances the themes of racial injustice, identity, power, and social invisibility without giving away everything at once, allowing readers to experience the tension through the protagonist’s eyes.

While the book is powerful, some parts feel overwhelming due to heavy symbolism and abstract ideas. At times, I had to reread certain paragraphs to fully understand Ellison’s deeper meaning.

Invisible Man is a must-read. It is not just for those interested in race or history, but for anyone who wants to understand identity, invisibility, and the human condition.