Ernest J. Gaines, A lesson before dying

Résumé du document

"A Lesson Before Dying" was first published in 1993. It was written by E. J. Gaines. He is a Southern writer. Most of his novels are historical fictions and also a social commentary from an Afro centric point of view. His novels often deal with alienation and search for dignity and masculine identity in a racist and hostile environment. "A Lesson Before Dying" is no exception: the scene takes place in Louisiana in late 1940's. The main character Jefferson is a 21 year old uneducated black man accused of robbery and first-degree murder. He has been convicted to die in the electric chair. Six months have passed since Jefferson's trial in October 1948. He has only three days left before his execution: "Its munday an I ain't got bu just a few days lef". So he basically writes about his feelings and thoughts in his diary; and he also writes about his situation, that is to say his imminent death.

Extraits

[...] Gaines, A lesson before dying Introduction Lesson before Dying” was first published in 1993. It was written by E. J. Gaines. He is a Southern writer. Most of his novels are historical fiction and also a social commentary from Afro centric point of view. His novels often deal with alienation and search for dignity and masculine identity in a racist and hostile environment. Lesson before Dying” is no exception: the scene takes place in Louisiana in late 40's. The main character Jefferson is a 21 year old uneducated black man accused of robbery and first-degree murder. [...]

[...] He has left only three days before his execution: munday an I ain't got bu just a few days lef”. So he basically writes about his feelings and thoughts in his diary; and he also writes about his situation, that is to say his imminent death. II. The impact of Jefferson's diary Letters and diaries are generally more intimate, personal and sincere than fiction. To help him express his deepest feelings and release his anger and also give a sense to his death, Grant has given Jefferson the gift of language and self-expression. [...]

[...] Jefferson, an innocent hero? Thanks to the pencil and the notepad, Jefferson has been able for the first time to express his love: know I care for nanan”, his affection: like you Mr. Wiggins” and his fear of dying: it spose to mean def or the grave or heven”. Despite grim circumstances, Jefferson often focuses on positive little details or events: he talks about Heaven, the birds, the trees, the moon, the gifts he received, and how pretty Vivian is. [...]

[...] Although he is not guilty of the murder, Jefferson is not revolted about his destiny anymore. He has admitted “taking the burden”, that is to say his role as a hero for the community. Once he is able to accept this fact, he can release his hatred and accept his fate with dignity: “Good by mr wigin tell them im strong” which means that he is strong enough to take this burden. Jefferson used to be referred to as a “stubborn brute” or a “dumb animal”. [...]

[...] In other words, he is a sensitive man. Conclusion As far as his personal achievement is concerned, he has finally regained his dignity, his masculine identity. He has found a goal in life. His experience will serve the community as an example. Through his diary which documents his life as a vital and contributing member of his community, Jefferson has become a role model and an everyday hero whose story deserves to be told and who has assumed the personal responsibility for telling his story in his own words. [...]