Next

Themes are the fundamental and often universal ideas explored in a literary work.

The Meaning of Sacrifice

The sacrifice of one’s dreams, safety, or a life outside of gang culture is a common thread that ties together the characters of the novel. Nothing in life comes without a cost, and no one knows that better than the people in Mav’s world. They work hard to get what they have, whether it is financial gain, security for their children, family stability, an education, or status within a gang. Members of the King Lords sacrifice their safety to gain status and risk their freedom when they deal drugs, which is the surest way to earn money in their neighborhood.

Faye stays on the right side of the law but works two jobs to support herself and her son. She sacrifices her time with him to provide for him and gives even more of her time to care for Mav’s son. She also sacrifices time with Moe, both to care for Seven and to avoid what she worries would be an uncomfortable conversation with her family. Mav, in turn, must spend time away from Seven to work, and sacrifices his gang involvement so that he can prove to Lisa that he will be an adequate father for their daughter. It seems likely that Lisa, like Keisha, will be a good mother and will be able to fulfill her college goals, but not without an incredible amount of sacrifice and hard work.

Traditional Ideas of Manhood

Mav’s idea of manhood, which is rooted in violence and the suppression of emotions, is a defining theme that informs his character arc. Mav’s world is often a dangerous place, and many of the young men there join gangs because they feel it will protect them. As junior members of the gang, the li’l homies must work their way up the ranks of the King Lords and prove to their elders that they have the strength needed to survive, contribute financially, and protect their fellow members. As a result, they often embrace traditional ideas of manhood that include violence, retribution, and stoicism. Mav comes to reject these ideas as the story progresses.

Mr. Wyatt presents Mav with a completely different version of what it means to be a man. He possesses great strength, but he uses it to fight immoral and outmoded ideas, not people. He has worked hard in an honest trade to become successful, and he pays it forward when he takes Mav under his wing. Mr. Wyatt is not afraid to show his emotions, and he encourages Mav to show his, too, so that Mav will have the strength to carry on and fight for his ideals.

Adonis’ ideas about manhood led the way to his son joining the King Lords. Initially, Adonis believes that it will protect Mav from the dangers in his world. When it becomes clear that this is not the right path for Mav, Adonis is brave enough to admit to his son that he was wrong and to encourage him to be a better man.

The Importance of Family and Community

Family and community are essential in the world of Concrete Rose, and this theme forms the foundation that enables Mav to mature. Family is everything in Mav’s world, but the definition of family is not limited to blood relations. Mr. Wyatt is as much of a father to Mav as Adonis is, though he is careful not to overstep his role or take Adonis’ place. Dre is a blood relation but treats Mav more like a brother than a cousin. He understands what Mav is going through and tries to inject some fun into Mav’s life as he imparts brotherly wisdom. The other li’l homies don’t always make the best decisions, but for the most part, they have Mav’s back. Along with Faye, all these people provide support and a sense of connection for Mav.

The importance of strong family and community is especially apparent in the actions of the characters who lack these things. Iesha’s mother has no qualms about leaving her grandson with a boy she barely knows and then she leaves Iesha to fend for herself. Lisa’s mother provides a private education and a nice home for her daughter, but when Lisa becomes pregnant, she is furious enough to kick her out of her home. Fortunately, Lisa can depend on her community of friends, and Mav and his family make sure that she is safe and provide her with the assurance that they will be there for her when she has her baby.

 

Next section Motifs

Take a Study Break