Social Issues In The Work Of Baldwin By James Baldwin

ThSince this is the only piece of work that Baldwin created with a white main character, it is most likely for the purpose of focusing on the social issues related to David`s sexual orientation. If the character had not been white, racial issues would have been introduced into the theme of the story. Consequently, confronting both social issues may have been too much too much to write about, or conflicted with the main theme Baldwin wished to express in this specific work. The then problematic nature of Baldwin`s sexual orientation also caused complications with publishing, as being gay was considered a mental health problem. Baldwin had also been told that this piece was too dark, and not appropriate for his limited audience. Perhaps combining

racial issues, with the negative light the United States is cast in throughout the book would be too strong of a critique for citizens to accept. David is said to increasing resent the fact that he is American. This development is almost dangerous for Baldwin to include, as his unsettled audience could be alienated even further if they have the traditional patriotism of an American citizen. In fact, near the end his ex-fiancé says “Americans should never come to Europe,” she says. “It means they never can be happy again. What’s the good of an American who isn’t happy? Happiness was all we had.” It is an intense piece as it confronts the entire nation of American with some of its greatest flaws; including especially how blindly patriotic citizens can be.