African American / Nonfiction
Date Published: 08-30-2025
facades, and a loss of authentic masculine identity, Elbert Jones Jr.
challenges readers to look past the surface. “Real Men vs. Plastic Men” is a
powerful, thought-provoking guide that dissects the difference between
performative masculinity (the “Plastic Man”) and genuine character (the “Real
Man”). Jones provides actionable advice and deeply resonant insights on
building integrity, emotional intelligence, discipline, and true leadership.
This book is a necessary conversation starter for anyone seeking to redefine
strength and live a life of meaningful impact.
EXCERPT
REAL MEN, PLASTIC MEN DEFINING THE DIVIDE
Introduce the Two Archetypes: “Real Men” vs. “Plastic Men”
Walk into any barbershop in Atlanta or South Philly, and you’ll hear the same conversations circling about manhood, fatherhood, respect, money, and survival. But underneath those everyday exchanges, something deeper is always at play: the contrast between two kinds of men. In today’s Black communities, we are surrounded by both Real Men and Plastic Men, and the consequences of who’s who are far-reaching.
Real Men are rooted. They don’t need to perform masculinity; they embody it. These men show up for their families, take care of their children, honor their commitments, and lead with integrity. They may not wear flash or command crowds, but their presence speaks louder than performance. A Real Man provides more than money; he brings stability, wisdom, protection, and emotional grounding. You’ll find him coaching basketball after work, showing up at parent-teacher conferences, or fixing his neighbor’s fence without needing applause.
Plastic Men, on the other hand, are a mirage. They talk loudly, move fast, and demand attention, but their foundation is hollow. These men often chase status, power, and validation at the expense of everything else: their children, their relationships, and their community. They might flex money on social media but duck child support. They boast about street smarts while leaving trails of broken trust behind them. Plastic Men wear manhood like a costume, shiny, attractive, and empty underneath.
To be clear, we’re not talking about men who are struggling; we all struggle. Real Men struggle too. What makes the difference is how a man responds. Real Men take responsibility. Plastic Men deflect blame. Real Men grow. Plastic Men hide. Real Men choose humility and consistency; Plastic Men crave control and chaos.
Take Darnell, for example, a 28-year-old who’s fathered four children by three women but refuses to take accountability. He says the system is against him, but never shows up to court. He blames the mothers for being “too emotional” while he disappears for weeks. He spends his energy on clothes, clubs, and clout but won’t spend a minute helping his kids with homework. His voice is loud, but his values are missing. That’s a Plastic Man.
Now compare that to Marcus, 32, who works at the post office. He doesn’t make six figures, but he comes home every night. He makes time for his kids and respects his wife. On weekends, you’ll find him mentoring teens at the rec center, including his own nephew, who’s on the edge of slipping into the streets. Marcus doesn’t need to prove anything because his life already tells the story. That’s a Real Man.
The tragedy is that many young boys growing up today are being pulled more toward Darnell than Marcus. Why? Because performance is louder than presence. The music videos, the Instagram reels, the false idols on reality TV, they all celebrate the noise. Real doesn’t sell, but plastic shines. And unless someone speaks truth into that divide, the cycle continues.
So this book is not just an observation, it’s a call. A call to recognize, reflect, and rise. Because this isn’t just about two kinds of men, it’s about two directions for our communities. One path leads to healing, growth, and legacy. The other leads to pain, loss, and generational damage.
We all know a Darnell. We all know a Marcus. And maybe, at different points in life, we’ve seen pieces of both within ourselves. But now is the time to ask: Who are you becoming? What kind of man are you raising? And what kind of man are you following?
The difference matters. The divide is real. And the work begins here.
Mr. Jones is entrepreneur with well over 33 years in the U.S. government and
knows how to operate a successful business. He has had experience as well in
the entertainment field. During the late 1970s’ and much of the early 80s’ Mr.
Jones affectionately known to his many friends and loved ones as ‘June’ or
‘Jonesie’ collaborated on various singles by several local DC area recording
artists and has mentored underground rap star “D Young”. A phenomenal
businessman who loves people and live talk radio Elbert Jones Jr. is a great
access to KJ Publications,Inc..
