## Objective: In this paper, we will explore various cultural contexts that influence a reader’s understanding of literature, specifically James Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues.”Assignment in Steps
The first step is to read “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin download. You’ll want to do this early in the week! It’s lengthy.
As you read, make notes on your reactions to the text: What do you think of the characters? What motivates them? What are their relationships to each other? What about the setting? How and why is it important? What role does race play in the story? What important themes stand out to you?
After you’ve read the story and taken notes on it, freewrite (Links to an external site.) for 30 minutes to an hour. In the freewrite, expand on your notes by digging deeper into the questions listed above, and any other thoughts that you have about the story. You will turn your freewrite in separately. In a freewrite, which is timed, unedited writing, you do not need to worry about grammar or sentence structure. Just write freely, letting your thoughts flow onto the page. This will help you prepare for the paper assignment.
Next, you should research some important contexts to see what connections you might find to provide a richer understanding of the story. Here is a list of some recommended contexts (you aren’t limited to these): African American history
race and racism
family
music
addiction
education
Your task with this paper is to choose one of these contexts and write a paper examining how it affects a reader’s understanding of the story. In other words, let’s say you choose “African American history” as your context. You should then identify and explain how understanding African American history leads to a deeper understanding of “Sonny’s Blues.” You’ll need to point out specific scenes, characters, themes, etc. and analyze how this historical knowledge enhances a reader’s experience and understanding of these specific things.
The finished paper should contain the following elements:
An introduction that establishes the context for your analysis and that introduces Baldwin and the story. Consider summarizing the story as it relates to the context you are considering.
A thesis that clearly states your argument, which should be something about how the context you are exploring creates a better understanding of a particular element of the story.
At least one argumentative source that you heavily interact with throughout the paper (you may have as many other sources as you wish). All sources must be cited using MLA citation. Do not overuse direct quotations. Summarize and paraphrase instead of using direct quotes all the time. To reiterate, you should have at least one source that makes an argument. In other words, if you only have one source, it should not be a Wikipedia-like source that simply gives you information that you quote. You need a source that makes an argument (takes a stand, argues a point, provides insight, etc.) so that you have something with which to interact. Don’t simply find a statistic or historical fact on a webpage and use it to illustrate your own point. That will not count as a substantial source. You will find the best sources by using Hinds Library (Links to an external site.).
Well-organized paragraphs that develop and support your thesis while integrating your source(s) in a meaningful way.
A conclusion that sums up your argument and leaves readers with some valuable insight