Point of View and Symbolism in Sonnys Blues - 1558 Words

Point of View and Symbolism in â€Å"Sonny’s Blues† The story â€Å"Sonny’s Blues† by James Baldwin makes excellent use of multiple literary elements. Namely, I think the writer utilizes symbolism and the nuances of point of view to give the story a deeper connotation that could not be said plainly. The meat of the story is about an unnamed older brother’s relationship and differences with his younger brother, Sonny. Sonny’s aspiration to become a jazz pianist leads him in an opposite direction than his brother, and into a world where the common suffering is dealt with by heroin and music. The fundamental differences between the brothers in their lack of understanding for each other and their gradual acceptance of one another is highlighted and†¦show more content†¦This is symbolized by â€Å"the very cup of trembling,† a scotch and milk he sent to Sonny that is an allusion to the Bible; when God acknowledges that the Israelit es have suffered for Him and he promises an end to their suffering. Maybe that means that this breakthrough of Sonny’s will bring a sense of fulfillment into his life and release him of his addiction to heroin. Two other important symbols are the moments of silence throughout the story, and the reoccurring usage of water. Each occurrence of silence in James Baldwin’s story is of great importance. In a tale centered around music, silence stands out more than noise. Once Sonny was confronted by Isabel and her family about his constant piano playing and stopped, â€Å"The silence of the next few days must have been louder than the sound of all the music ever played since time began† (Baldwin 351). To Sonny, this silence is deadly. He lives his life for music. The stillness marks the beginning of his downfall. During the narrator’s first flashback to childhood, he recalls a sense of dismal seriousness, â€Å"For a moment nobody’s talking, but every face looks darkening, like the sky outside† (Baldwin 344). Even a child can feel that there is some sort of inescapable impending pain that everyone knows about, yet no one wants to discuss. However, that is the exa ct subject that Sonny addresses in his music. WaterShow MoreRelatedSymbolism And Themes In Sonnys Blues By James Baldwin1958 Words   |  8 PagesWhile reading â€Å"Sonny’s Blues† by James Baldwin theme, symbolism, and motifs were discovered throughout the entire short story. Sonny one of the two main characters, is dealing with a drug addiction and is now following his dreams of becoming a jazz musician. The narrator, whose name was never given, does his best to keep the promise he made his mother years ago, to be his brother’s keeper. James Baldwin, an African American author, grew up in Harlem, New York. Baldwin had no one to share his loveRead MoreEnglish Lit 13021282 Words   |  6 Pagesstory â€Å"Cathedral,† particularly the narrator’s tone. How does the tone affect the reader’s perception of theme? How does it enhance the epiphany? 3. Why is the meeting between Mala and Mrs. Croft in â€Å"The Third and Final Continent† a significant point in the relationship between the young husband and wife? 4. How does the moon landing relate to the overall theme of â€Å"The Third and Final Continent†? 5. Identify and discuss major themes in â€Å"The War Generation.† 6. Examine the use of flat charactersRead MoreBaldwin s Views On Personal Liberation1731 Words   |  7 Pages Baldwin’s views on personal liberation are a bit difficult to describe. This is because, throughout his stories, Baldwin shows a great deal of permeability in his view of personal liberation. It could be argued that this permeability occurs because of the length of time between when each story was written. In his earlier work, such as â€Å"Previous Condition (1948),† Baldwin’s views of personal liberation seem very pessimistic. This is seen in the way in which his character think, speak, and behave