# VII: The Flute-Boy explained — Banjo

> Chapter companion for Banjo by Claude McKay.

## What happens

Banjo and Ray encounter a flute-playing youth in Bum Square, who tells them his story of leaving his ship and being swindled in the Ditch. Banjo recruits him for his planned orchestra, and a debate ensues about race, music, and the banjo's symbolism.

## Themes in this chapter

### Race and Identity

The debate between Goosey and Banjo over the banjo's symbolism highlights differing views on racial pride and cultural heritage.

### Art and Music

The chapter centers on Banjo's plan to form an orchestra, with discussions about the role of music in Black identity.

### Colonialism and Exploitation

Taloufa's backstory and the flute-boy's exploitation in the Ditch illustrate the economic and social exploitation faced by Black seamen.

## Character check-ins

### Banjo

Recruits the flute-boy for his orchestra, defends his banjo playing against accusations of it being a symbol of slavery.

### Ray

Accompanies Banjo, expresses outrage at the flute-boy's mistreatment, and shows interest in the orchestra.

### Goosey

The flute-boy, newly named, shares his story of being swindled and discusses race politics with the group.

### Taloufa

Mentioned as Goosey's friend, a West African with a guitar and horn, who is still on the ship and will be paid off soon.

### Bugsy

Teases Goosey and comments on race talk, adding humor to the conversation.

### Dengel

Comments on police corruption in the Ditch, noting their low pay and collusion with criminals.

## Key lines

> That ain’t got nothing to do with me, nigger,” replied Banjo. “I play that theah instrument becaz I likes it.

Banjo dismisses Goosey's criticism, stating he plays the banjo simply because he enjoys it, not as a symbol of slavery.

_Banjo rejects the racial symbolism attached to the banjo, asserting personal preference over political meaning._

> The flute-boy told his story. He had fine white teeth and red gums, and contentedly displaying them, he told his story of the “broad” and the Ditch, told it heartily as many other colored boys before him had done.

The flute-boy cheerfully recounts his experiences on the ship and in the Ditch, a common tale among Black seamen.

_The narrative highlights the routine nature of such exploitation and the resilience of the storyteller._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/banjo_se/chapters/vii-the-flute-boy
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/banjo_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/banjo_se/chapters