The Sky is Gray and Almos' A Man, Theme Comparison

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Recommended: Themes of maturity in literature

In "The Sky Is Gray" by Ernest J. Gaines and "Almos' A Man" by Richard Wright, the two main characters display different levels of maturity. In "The Sky Is Gray" Gaines shows how poverty has caused James's maturity to grow, while in "Almos' A Man" Wright shows how Dave tries to prove his maturity by purchasing a gun. The factors that influence and help to shape James and Dave into men include both their environment and interactions with and discipline of their mothers.

In "The Sky Is Gray" James displays his maturity early on when he is waiting at the bus stop with his mother to go to the dentist's office. His mind was on his mother and whether she had left enough wood to keep the family warm, if it was going to rain, and if the hog was going to get out. He knew that his mother would not be worrying about these things if he was there to look after the family and everything else. Throughout the rest of the story, there are many other instances where James's shows his maturity--from walking in the bitter cold, to the confrontation between his mother and the pimp in the café. Being without, has taught James to be appreciative. More importantly, he has learned that the decisions he makes affect not only him, but everyone around him.

By contrast, Dave is the complete opposite. His immaturity is revealed in the opening paragraph of the story when he says, "A man oughta have a little gun aftah he done worked hard all day." He does not have a valid reason for wanting to own a gun, but feels that a gun will make him a man and earn him respect. His immaturity is further revealed when he accidentally shoots Mr. Hawkins's mule. Instead of confessing, he lies about the incident by telling him that the mule fell o...

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...as young, James understood why his mother whipped him and why she did not want him to show her affection. She was raising him up to be strong; one who could take care of the family if something were to happen to her while his father was away. Because of his strict upbringing, James is able to endure hunger, the bitter cold, and the intense pain of his tooth. While Dave's mother believes in discipline, she never follows through with it during the story. Even though Dave lies and disobeys, he is never punished for his actions.

The boys' environments and mothers have had a significant influence on their maturation. James's poverty stricken conditions and disciplinary mother have caused him to be wise beyond his years. However, Dave's lifestyle and his ability to recognize his mother's weaknesses have been the major causes of his immaturity and irresponsibility.

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