Champions

In the piece "Champion of the World", Maya Angelou proves how one person could have an impact on the lives of many. Joe Louis acts like a type of savior to the Blacks. Throughout the story there are many allusions to the motif of religion, and not only Christianity but also the old Greek religion relating to the gods. "World without end" (90), this line has close similarities to a prayer of the Christian religion, however, Angelou disposed of the amen after the verse. Also, similarly to Jesus Christ, Joe Louis acts as a savior for his people by proving that “[they] were the strongest people in the world” (Angelou 90). Louis is carrying his people to equality. There are also many allusions to the Greek gods as the men are said to be drinking "white lightning" which is related to Zeus. Also, the men are "drinking Coca-colas like ambrosia" which is the food and drink of the gods; the men are feeling godlike because of Joe's win. However, it is ironic how despite their joy and godlike feelings they still do not feel safe in their own community. Joe is helping to make in difference for the black community but it will take a lot of change until whites and blacks are equal.