Changing America by Swinging a Bat

The story of Jackie Robinson is one of bravery and societal progress, and I was delighted to see that Mike Royko had written an article (“Jackie’s Debut a Unique Day”) about it many years ago. It is amazing to be able to read the experience of someone who was there at that pivotal moment when number 42 stepped on the field. The article provides an incredibly interesting view on one of the most substantial moments in American sports history.

Initially, Royko’s story begins before the baseball game has begun, and he provides insight into how the common man felt about Robinson. As a kid, Royko picked up on the general unsettled public. His writing is reflective of his understanding of it when he was a child; how does one man change everything about a sport that is played by millions? Choosing to include this introduction is crucial to fully describing the importance of Robinson and his play. Royko does not try to subdue the racism that was blatantly present during that time. He then begins to tell how he and his friend walked the five or so miles to get to the ballpark. Royko does more than just reiterate the actual happenings. He tells a story, and it adds so much strength to his writing.

Once Royko begins to talk about his friend and him being at the game, he goes into detail about the atmosphere. He explains that it seemed like everyone was one uncomfortable. There was a blanket of uncertainty over the entire stadium. The topic of racism has been analyzed and deliberated on highly for a long time (for good reason). However, simple words are not nearly enough. Royko writes not only words but an environment and a story. The reader can feel the tension through the ink.

I love the story of Jackie Robinson. He faced so much tribulation, and Royko does a good job of writing about how Robinson’s actions affected others. Explaining the man who bought the ball from him and how he thought the man would still feel today is masterful.