The Coming of John: a Summary and Analysis of Its Themes and Impact

Introduction

The Coming of John, a powerful short story by the renowned African American author, Paul Laurence Dunbar, offers readers a vivid exploration of themes like race, identity, and the struggle for self-acceptance. This narrative is not just a tale about an individual but serves as a microcosm of the broader societal issues that were prevalent during Dunbar's time. It’s fascinating how Dunbar manages to encapsulate complex emotions and social dynamics in such a concise piece. In this essay, we will delve into a summary of the story while also analyzing its key themes and overall impact on literature and society.

Summary of The Coming of John

The story revolves around John, a bright young man who has been educated beyond the expectations set for someone of his race during the late 19th century. He returns to his home after completing his studies with dreams and aspirations that are tragically at odds with his community’s expectations. Dunbar paints an intimate picture of John's internal conflict as he grapples with his desire for recognition and acceptance versus the harsh realities imposed by racial prejudice.

Upon returning home, John is met with mixed reactions from those around him. While some are proud of his accomplishments, others view him as an outsider who has strayed too far from their roots. This tension culminates in tragic consequences that highlight both John's personal struggles and the collective challenges faced by African Americans in that era.

Themes Explored

Dunbar's work is rich with themes that resonate on multiple levels. One major theme is **the quest for identity**. John represents many African Americans who seek to redefine themselves beyond societal constraints. His education symbolizes progress; however, it also alienates him from those who still cling to traditional roles within their community.

Another significant theme is **the impact of racism** on self-worth and personal relationships. Throughout the narrative, John's interactions reveal deep-seated prejudices among his peers. Despite his accomplishments, he remains haunted by an internalized sense of inferiority which stems from these external judgments.

A related theme is **the duality of aspiration vs reality**. John embodies hope for advancement; yet he faces systemic barriers that prevent him from fully realizing this dream. The contrast between what he strives for and what society allows underscores a painful truth about many individuals striving against deeply entrenched social norms.

Impact on Literature and Society

The Coming of John holds significant importance not only as a literary piece but also as a social commentary reflective of its time. Dunbar’s poignant storytelling brings forth critical conversations about race relations in America—a topic that remains relevant today.

On one hand, this work helps shed light on the emotional turmoil experienced by individuals caught between two worlds: one rooted in cultural heritage and another beckoning them towards progress yet fraught with challenges. Through John's story, Dunbar effectively illustrates how systemic racism can create barriers to achievement while simultaneously impacting personal identity.

Moreover, The Coming of John contributes to African American literature by showcasing an authentic voice often overlooked in mainstream narratives during Dunbar's era. His ability to blend poetic language with real-life experiences enables readers—both then and now—to connect deeply with characters whose struggles reflect broader societal issues.

Conclusion

The Coming of John serves not only as a compelling narrative but also as an urgent reminder about ongoing issues regarding race relations and personal identity within society today. Through John's journey back home—a journey filled with hope yet steeped in disappointment—Dunbar invites readers into an intimate dialogue about acceptance: both self-acceptance amidst adversity and communal acceptance across divides imposed by race.
Ultimately, while set over a century ago, its themes remain strikingly relevant; they continue challenging us to reflect upon our own identities within our communities while advocating for greater understanding among diverse populations.

References

• Dunbar, Paul Laurence. "The Coming of John." In *The Complete Poems*, edited by David Macey (2001).
• Baker Jr., Houston A., "Modernism and the Harlem Renaissance." In *African American Literature: An Anthology* (2004).
• Tate, Claudia “Paul Laurence Dunbar: A Critical Biography.” In *American Literary Realism* (1999).
• Bennett Jr., Lerone “Before & After: The Rise & Fall Of Black Education.” *The Journal Of Negro Education* (2006).