The Sky is Gray by Ernest Gaines is a story that is critically analyzed. The title of the story is ironic, as it initially suggests a bleak mood but also hints at hope in the future. Similar to how clouds clear after a storm, James discovers on his trip to Bayonne that the stormy clouds of his life are beginning to part, allowing some sunshine to come through. The entire story consistently portrays a very gloomy atmosphere.
The setting of the story enhances its gloominess. One example is the terrible weather. James remarks on how cold it is, saying, “I seen the smoke coming out o’ the cow’s nose.” Later, he describes the sleet falling heavily like rain. James even turns up his collar to shield himself from the strong winds that persist throughout the story. Additionally, the lack of color in many of the scenes further contributes to the overall sense of gloom.
For instance, in this story, the road is depicted as being very gray. James describes it as a “long old road, and as far as you can see, you don’t see anything but gravel.” James also mentions that “the sky is gray” and there isn’t much grass around. Even the characters’ clothing is described as being dull in color. James’ mother is seen wearing a “black coat and a black hat.” The story takes place during a war, which adds to the overall gloomy atmosphere. James expresses his concern, saying “I wonder when we will see him again… It seems like he will never come home,” suggesting that his father went off to war and is most likely dead.
The father’s absence deprives his family of adequate food, money, and manpower. The family’s destitution, partially caused by the father’s absence, leads them to feel hopeless about their future. The family resides in a poor, rural location, which was common for black individuals during that era. They have to squeeze into a small and run-down home, resulting in the need to share rooms and beds. Their clothing is also in poor condition, exemplified when James compares his worn-out shoes to the new brown ones on a store mannequin, declaring, “You wait till Summer…” Additionally, the family lacks sufficient funds for other essential needs such as food and medical care.
For instance, the regular breakfast for them consists of bread and syrup. According to Ty, James’ younger brother, he expressed his desire for a change, saying, “I’m getting tired of this old syrup. I want me some bacon sometime.” Another tasteless food they consume is beans, which J. . .le also acknowledges as a reflection of James and his mother’s dignity. In return for the food, the woman allows James to handle her garbage and take it to the corner (“Ernest [her husband] has a bad cold and can’t go out there.”). However, when James lifts the cans, he notices that they are empty.
When James and his mom are leaving, she inquires with the old lady if she sells salt meat, as the old woman’s house also serves as a store. Mama requests two bits worth of salt meat. The old lady is aware that this is not a significant amount, so she endeavors to give Mama more than the value of her money. Mama notices this gesture, and in an attempt to preserve Mama’s dignity, the old lady ultimately provides her with the accurate quantity of salt meat for her payment.
Throughout the story, James demonstrates his ability to meet his mother’s expectations of being a responsible figure in the household. One way he does this is by concealing the pain of his toothache, determined to show strength for his family. Additionally, he is actively learning how to suppress his fear, as seen in the “bird event.” However, the ultimate test for James lies in his realization that maintaining dignity is of greater significance than enduring the harshness of the cold wind. As a result, both James and the reader are left yearning for a ray of sunshine to finally break through the clouds in his life.
