“The Comet” is an afro futuristic, sci-fi story by Du Bois. A short story written in 1920 aimed to expand on what the color line meant. It was a post-apocalyptic story and allegory to bring up a powerful critique of racism in society, particularly within New York City. He wrote about a cosmic event and created a world where society was destabilized to be able to explore issues of race and power of stability on a blank canvas. Du Bois highlights the civilization and the resilience of some injustices, pre and post-comet systems. By portraying a post-apocalyptic scene and the city in ruins, Du Bois highlights the damaging effect of racism on society and the persevering through battle for endurance in a hostile environment. He employs symbols to critique racism. The protagonists Jim a black man and Julia a white woman are the first known survivors of cosmic devastation in the story. Their alliance symbolizes the potential of cooperation across racial lines. However, after finding out they were not the only survivors, their relationship/journey is fraught with challenges and dangers reflecting the influence of racism on societal dynamics. Through the main character’s interactions, Du Bois exposes the hypocrisy of racial prejudice and the nature of racial divisions ultimately advocating for racial unity, awareness, and understanding. “The Comet” serves as a cautionary tale and call to action kind off, challenging readers to confront racism and envision a fair future. lastly “The Comet” by W.E.B. Du Bois utilizes genre convection such as post-apocalyptic storytelling, and symbol a narrative that critiques deep racism in society. Through the investigation of subjects like endurance, fortitude, and fundamental foul play, Du Bois welcomes readers to consider the getting-through effect of racism and envision elective ways towards social change.

After reading the text I believe that often when privileged people seem to be in trouble or striped away from their privileges or social groups they are likely to change. I also believe that anyone would act the same way Julia did just in a sense of survival. In general, the story was really interesting to read and it was engaging to learn about Afrofutism since it is a term I hadn’t heard before.