Answer :The short story “Recitatif” challenges the reader’s perceptions of race and identity by leaving the race of the two main characters unknown. One clue we get from the narrator, Twyla, is that Roberta is “a girl from a whole other race” and together they looked “like salt and pepper” (Morrison 160). Therefore, the audience is left to decide which character is black and which is white.
On the first read, it was made very clear that Twyla was African American. I can point to specific passages that support my initial reading of the story. The most crucial line that points in this direction was when Twyla reflected on Roberta’s acquired wealth, commenting: “Everything is so easy for them. They think they own the world” (167). Throughout the history of the United States, racism and segregation played a huge role in how our society functioned. Despite the Civil Rights Movement, white privilege still exists. Therefore, I interpreted this vague comment as referring to white people and commenting on the advantage white people have.
One could argue that it is entirely the opposite. That Twyla is white and Roberta black. Twyla looks towards Roberta’s social status as something she feels like she deserves. This could hint toward the American social structures privilege those with white skin. Though ultimately it goes back to the argument that Twyla is black, not white, as white people are historically privileged. Twyla might envy the privilege Roberta receives.
On a final note, it is important to consider that the race of these two characters are left entirely to the reader's imagination and bias. The truth of the matter is that the author is the only one who knows for sure whether Twyla is black or if she is white and if Roberta is white or if she is black.
Explanation: Hope it helps but do not copy word for word...