Siblings Relationship in James Baldwins Sonnys Blues...

Siblings Relationship in James Baldwins Sonnys Blues Eminent psychologists have made convincing arguments for the effect birth order has on personality. In addition, laymen can cite innumerable examples of domineering, pragmatic, reliable older siblings contrasting with those fitting the youngest stereotype -- irresponsible, spoiled, and selfish. Such character traits often cause lifelong conflict between siblings. In his short story Sonnys Blues, James Baldwin shows a profound example of such sibling friction. Baldwin paints a realistic portrait of an older brother, Richard (the narrator), always steady, predictable, and in control, and Sonny, a musician and recovering heroin addict who looks at the world through†¦show more content†¦Richard says he has never seen Sonny so upset, but at that time he figures Sonny is just going through some adolescent stage and does not take him seriously (424). These memories establish a definite pattern of the brothers interactions. Richards recollections indicate that he has made a li fe-long habit of disregarding Sonnys beliefs and opinions. In this scene after the funeral, the readers gain a window into the core of the brothers differences. While Richard believes people should suppress their desires for practicalitys sake, Sonny vehemently disagrees. I think people ought to do what they want to do, what else are they alive for? Richard further antagonizes Sonny by mocking his plans to join the military and demanding he live with his then-fiancee Isabels family and finish school (425). In Richards assertions, Baldwin shows the true extent of his struggle to control his brother. To bolster this example, Baldwin reveals that Richard imposes these plans on Sonny while insisting Sonny has agreed to them. Again, he treats Sonny like a child and attempts to placate him. Wait a year, he says, finish school, and I swear Ill help you do whatever you want to do . . . . Condescendingly, he continues. Will you please do that? he wheedles. Just for me?, bringing to mind the image of a weary adult tempting an unruly toddler with chocolate inShow MoreRelatedThe Piano Lesson, By And Sophocles Antigone1221 Words   |  5 PagesSiblings, you love them, you hate them, or maybe a little of both. They might be your best friend or they might be your worst enemy, which is just how siblings are. Everyone has a different relationship with their siblings. In The Piano Lesson by August Wilson the relationship between the siblings, Berniece and Willie Boy, is difficult. They both live in different worlds and so their ideas are different. In James Baldwin’s â€Å"Sonny’s Blues†, the relationship between Sonny and his brother is very muchRead MoreBiblical and Religious Themes in Sonnys Blues Essay1269 Words   |  6 PagesJames Baldwin’s short story, â€Å"Sonny’s Blues,† is the authors most studied and critically analyzed piece of literature. 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