"Sonny's Blues" and Search for Identity

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how a sense of identity becomes the fundamental truth - as the protagonist learns in James Baldwin's short story, "Sonny's Blues." It looks at how through a series of encounters and serious moments of self-reflection, the protagonist learns about the importance and rewards of being true to oneself. It also explains that from observing his brother's life, the protagonist recognizes the need to change his perspective of not only his brother but himself as well.

From the Paper:

""Sonny's Blues" is a tale of one man learning about his own identity by learning from his delinquent brother. The protagonist learns that being true to oneself is more important than anything else and that this process is different for every human being. What has always been a sore spot for him suddenly becomes a teaching tool once he opens up and tries to understand Sonny, instead of criticize him. He learns that while his brother may live a reckless life, he does so with an honesty and innocence that the protagonist can finally admire."

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