Sonny's Blues (short story)

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Sonny’s Blues (1957) is a short story by James Baldwin .

[edit] Plot summary

The story is told in the first person, through the eyes of Sonny’s older brother, unnamed, who is a high school teacher. The narrator reminisces about their childhood in Harlem, and a promise he made to his mother to look after Sonny. However, the brothers become estranged, as Sonny’s brother does not approve of Sonny’s lifestyle in pursuit of his desire to become a jazz pianist. After his daughter dies, Sonny’s brother seeks to renew their fraternal relationship. By this time Sonny has been incarcerated for dealing heroin. After Sonny’s release, the two become closer as his brother, a pragmatist, struggles to understand Sonny’s idealistic, impulsive temperament. They are finally reconciled when his brother sees Sonny perform at a nightclub and is moved to tears by Sonny’s playing.

[edit] Themes

Like much of Baldwin’s work, "Sonny’s Blues" explores questions of identity and the social context , for fear they will know too much, too soon. On the other hand, Sonny’s brother, seven years older than Sonny, attempts to pass on to Sonny the benefit of his wisdom. He tries to dissuade Sonny from becoming a musician, urging him to stay in school, but this only leads to them falling out when Sonny repeatedly disregards his brother’s advice. When Sonny's Brother sees the scotch and the milk, it reminded them of the times that they struggled with, as kids and adults. However, it is when he hears Sonny play the blues that Sonny’s brother finally understands his viewpoint. Another theme is second chance or redemption.