Kearney and Pharaoh

I really enjoyed reading Tom Kearney's story because of his tone and personality. He is just an average citizen that has opinions on controversial topics ranging from the atomic bomb to integration. I especially liked the story because of how blunt Kearney is. He is honest and simple in his opinions which was refreshing to read. From his experience as a Chicago police officer, he has seen it all and describes stories simply. "When people attempt to offer a bribe. I know I've been negligent in my duty because I should have arrested the person. At the same time. that's universal, everywhere. I turn it down. I told him, you know, 'No harm trying. But I just don't go that way.' [Laughs sadly.] It's a corrupt society". He handles bribery with experience and and his attitude is very calm. He understands society through dealing with it as an officer. He represents American views and is opinionated on everything. When asked if he had any colored friends, he gave a funny and honest response. "Oh yes. Yes. [Pause.] I say colored friends and I think colored friends...but I actually really don't know". Kearney tries to get along with everyone and does not have a negative opinion against African Americans. In fact, he relates himself to them saying how their objectives in life are really the same by imagining their side. I gained respect for Tom because he just wants best for everyone in the country and promotes the welfare of blacks. He explains the problems of the country through the way he sees them without much of a political view such as Americans fear of involvement and the young generation. Kearney perfectly illustrates a normal American man's view of the country.

Kid Pharaohs personality was completely different than Tom Kearneys. He has an aggressive, tough guy attitude that is the polar opposite from Kearneys. He acts invincible and almost too tough. When asked if he is scared if anything, Kid responds, "Absolutely nothing". He has such strong opinions about everything and a big ego about his way of life which translates into unique views. The most interesting though was his opinion on the Japanese, "The best people for communities are the Japanese. They're never above a whisper. Their homes are immaculate. Show me a Japanese on the street after ten o'clock. Show me one, I'll offer a universal challenge to all. Did you ever see one arrested? Did you ever see one under the influence of an intoxicated beverage? Did you ever see 'em pregnant, Japanese girls who are not married? Of course not, there's love in the home. Say for Negroes, they're animals". Pharaoh definitely articulates his ideas a lot more clearly than Kearney and shows respect for different races. He gives off a sense that he knows everything about everything and everyone. I guess he also sort of represents a different type of American, one with tons of strong opinions. He is set on his ideas and nothing can change them with is direct personality. I liked reading stories with two completely different personalities and seeing how opinions are expressed through them. Both represent some qualities of an average American.