In "Between the World and Me," Ta-Nehisi Coates reflects on his personal experiences with anguish, emphasizing that growth often entails grappling with profound discomfort. Although he struggles to articulate the sources of his pain, he acknowledges its presence and complexity, indicating a deep understanding of his emotional landscape.

Coates points out that this anguish is not something to be glorified; instead, it is a raw and honest representation of his reality as a Black man in America. By confronting and naming his feelings, Coates reveals the struggles within society, urging a recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities.