What is the theme of Ta Nehisi-Coates”s profile?

I think the theme is very historical. Throughout the interview, Ta Nehisi-Coates’ profile on Michelle Obama emphasizes where Michelle came from and how it contrasts as to where she is now.

Is there an overarching narrative?

I believe there is an overarching narrative. The reason is because not only does it reflect on a profile of Michelle Obama, but it also expresses how history has changed in particular neighborhoods over the years.

What surprises Coates about Michelle Obama?

Coates was surprised about Michelle’s personality and its flexibility. One moment, she’s, “slinging bean pies,” and the next moment she is recalling about her old past.

How does Coates contextualize Michelle in the context of his own background growing up in Baltimore?

The author has a comparison with Michelle Obama’s background in Chicago. As the author grew up in a neighborhood and time where blacks were treated poorly, Chicago had it’s own fight with black segregation. In addition, it seems as if the black community in Chicago was filled with culture.