Ray Bradbury Forums
The Other Foot

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07 June 2003, 07:00 PM
rulon_parker
The Other Foot
I think the " Other Foot" is one of Bradbury's most poignant expressions on what it means to be human. We all are aware of the ugly racial slurs that have existed throughout centuries of intercultural living together. Yet, in this story, it depicts a black man, Willie Johnson, planning racial bigotry on white men he does not even know. I like the slant Mr. Bradbury writes to show that people, who are not white, can have racial feelings, too.
Further, the humanity Willie Johnson exhibits when all the explanations and feelings are laid bare should be a testimony to all people of every culture that it is possible to forgive and forget. Bravo Ray!
08 June 2003, 07:22 AM
dandelion
"The Other Foot" was first published early in 1951. Rosa Parks did not kick off (excuse the pun) the Civil Rights movement until late in 1955, nearly five years later. This story is amazing in its daring to be politically incorrect and emotionally correct. Even today it stands up well as a good alternate reality future story.