Rationality and Pride in Earnest Gaines’ 'The Sky is Gray'

NameEarnest Gaines’ “The Sky is Gray”
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Earnest Gaines’ “The Sky is Gray” is a story narrated by James who is an 8 year old African American bot. The story revolves around his experiences in Bayonne, Louisiana, which is prominent and infamous for its racism, inequality and prejudice among people of color and whites. It was set in the 1930’s, a time of war, which gives the context for the background and upbringing of James. His father was drafted in the military to fight for the American forces. This gives an irony, as the father is fighting for the country, while his family faces prejudices and discrimination in the South. The story centralizes on the wisdom of James’s mother, Octavia, who remains strong and moral amidst the challenges in their life. James is proud oh his mom for teaching him lesso...