In James Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues,” several internal conflicts are portrayed, primarily revolving around the protagonists, the narrator and his brother Sonny. One of the most significant internal conflicts is the narrator’s struggle to understand and connect with Sonny’s passion for music amidst his own experiences of suffering and despair. The narrator grapples with feelings of fear and anger as he reflects on Sonny’s choices, especially his battles with addiction and the life he has chosen.
Another layer of conflict is Sonny’s own fight against the demons of his past and the pressures of his identity as a Black man in a society that often marginalizes him. He feels torn between the expectations placed upon him by his family and society, and his desire to express himself through music. This internal struggle highlights the broader themes of identity, suffering, and the quest for understanding that resonate through the narrative.
Ultimately, these internal conflicts are mirrored in the complexities of their relationship, as both brothers must confront their personal pains in order to build a connection. Baldwin uses music as a metaphor for freedom and self-expression, illustrating how it serves as a means for Sonny to navigate his inner turmoil while also providing a pathway for reconciliation with his brother.