The sibling relationship between the narrator and his brother in “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin greatly contributes to the meaning of the work. Throughout the story, the narrator separates himself from his family and his community. He passes as if he was not connected to his ancestors who struggled through slavery to freedom. The narrator takes this freedom for granted, choosing to gain privilege, status, and acceptance. Unlike his brother Sonny, who accepts and embraces his community, the narrator gives up his identity for the safety and wellbeing of his new family. By doing so, however, the narrator loses Sonny and the rest of his community. Ultimately, Sonny is the only one able to reunite his brother with the identity and community he
