Washington Black

Wash, Tanna, and Mr. Goff are now in England, about to begin the proposed construction of an aquarium in London called Ocean House. While the building will be based primarily upon Wash’s original design, Mr. Goff is the one who will receive the credit for the achievement, because they would never give it to “a Negro eighteen years old, with no formal scientific training” (290). Although Wash recognizes that this is necessary for practical reasons, he resents the fact that he will not be known for his achievements.

Wash lives in a small garden house off the Goffs’ main house. While Mr. Goff was at first uncomfortable with Tanna’s new relationship, his friendship with Wash grew as they cared for the specimens on the long sea journey to England, and “a bond took shape, something richer than the uneasy truce of Nova Scotia” (291). While aboard the ship, Wash also practiced reading with Tanna can now read fluently and without trouble.

A few weeks after they arrive in London, Wash falls ill and Tanna tends to him. He is feverish and unwell, not sure where he is, and is overcome by memories of his past: “Willard’s attack, that last sad dinner at which I’d caught my final glimpse of