Summary of Malcolm X - Article Example

Malcolm X writes that there was a time in prison that he actually felt more freedom than ever before. This new feeling of freedom was caused by his growing literacy and his increasing desire to share the teachings of Elijah Muhammad with the world. This new freedom was difficult for Malcolm X to obtain, but he was diligent in his studies. Malcolm X said that he had a difficult time understanding books because so many of the words were unknown to him. He said that they might as well have been written in a language other than English.

His lack of vocabulary meant that he could not use the written word to broaden his understanding. He remembers that when he was hustling on the street, he was the most influential speaker around. The problem now, is his only means of communicating with the world outside the prison is through writing. So he decided to become a better writer. Malcolm X began by getting a copy of the dictionary and a few blank tablets. He started to copy each page of the notebook until he had copied the entire A section.

This exercise taught him new words and kept him busy so he did not dwell on being in prison. He also said that his handwriting improved greatly while doing these exercises. As a result of this new educational regimen, Malcolm X was soon able to be more articulate in his written language. This allowed him to write with confidence. He now was able to write just as powerfully as he could speak. Malcolm X said, “months passed without my even thinking about being imprisoned. In fact, up to then, I never had been so truly free in my life.

” I like this quote because it shows how liberating education can be.