Compare And Contrast Sonny's Blues And Cathedral

Cathedral Blues

The stories “Cathedral” by Raymond Carver, and “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin, are similar in a few different aspects. First of all both stories have a first person narrator. Secondly the narrators both overcome ignorance and predisposition toward another character that has some sort of disability. Despite the similarities of these two stories, each author portrays the characters entirely different. In “Cathedral”, Raymond Carver does an excellent job of creating real and believable characters; unlike James Baldwin, who fails to do so, creating mere vessels to portray his views instead of unique and independent characters. Carver is known for having characters that are blue collar, working class, and down on their luck.

The physical description of Robert obviously helps to visualize him and how he might carry himself. “This blind man was late forties, a heavy-set, balding man with stooped shoulders, as if he carried a great weight there. He wore brown slacks, brown shoes, a light-brown shirt, a tie, a sports coat” (Carver 107). Carver also gives us details of Roberts booming voice and friendly demeanor. These descriptions along with certain mannerisms help to create a mental image of the way Robert behaves. “He lifted his beard, sniffed it, and let it fall” (Carver 109). These subtle details makes a huge difference when reading. Just that little mannerism of Robert playing with his beard few times throughout the story better allows the reader to picture how he moves and interacts with the narrator while conversing. The way Robert continues to call the narrator “bub” is another unique detail of his character. Somehow, it fits his big friendly demeanor so well. This seems to be such a simple but effective way to create a unique characteristic for the reader. His calmness and ability to cope with the narrators sarcastic remarks successfully displays Robert as the compassionate and patient man that Carver intended to