I want to know why(Th)

 

This blog is part of the task on Thinking Activity - "I Want To Know Why". "I Want To Know Why" topic was given by professor Mrs. Devanshi Bhatt. Certainly, here's a unique and intriguing answer.

Introduction:

Sherwood Anderson, a pioneering figure in American literature, delves into the complexities of adolescence, identity, and existential questioning in his short story "I Want to Know Why." First published in 1920, Anderson's work continues to resonate with readers for its poignant exploration of youth's search for meaning in a world marked by disillusionment and uncertainty. In this comprehensive analysis, we embark on a journey through the narrative landscape of "I Want to Know Why," unraveling its themes, characters, and symbolic imagery to uncover the profound insights it offers into the human experience.

The Author Behind the Story:

Before delving into the narrative itself, it's crucial to understand the life and literary legacy of Sherwood Anderson. Born in 1876 in Camden, Ohio, Anderson spent much of his early life in the American Midwest, where he drew inspiration from the landscapes and people of small-town America. His writing style, characterized by its introspective realism and psychological depth, earned him acclaim as a pioneer of modernist literature.

"I Want to Know Why" is emblematic of Anderson's thematic preoccupations, exploring the inner lives of his characters with a keen psychological insight and sensitivity. Through his work, Anderson sought to illuminate the universal human experience, grappling with questions of identity, alienation, and the search for authenticity in a rapidly changing world.

Exploring the Story:

"I Want to Know Why" unfolds as a first-person narrative, recounted by an unnamed adolescent protagonist who finds himself grappling with questions of identity and belonging. Set against the backdrop of rural America, the story centers on the protagonist's fascination with horse racing and his desire to understand the enigmatic allure of the racetrack.

From the outset, Anderson immerses us in the protagonist's world, capturing the sights, sounds, and sensations of the racetrack with vivid immediacy:

"I had got into the habit of going to the track almost every afternoon and it was my custom to stand by the rail and watch the horses being exercised."

Through these evocative descriptions, Anderson transports us into the heart of the racetrack, inviting us to share in the protagonist's sense of wonder and curiosity. Yet, beneath the surface glamour of the racetrack lies a deeper existential yearning, as the protagonist grapples with his desire to understand the mysteries of life and mortality.

As the story unfolds, the protagonist's fascination with horse racing becomes a metaphor for his broader search for meaning and purpose. He becomes fixated on a particular horse, Sunstreak, whose untamed spirit and wild beauty captivate his imagination:

"I was always terribly excited when Sunstreak was to run in a race. His wild, black mane and the way he held his head made me excited."

Here, Anderson skillfully employs symbolism to convey the protagonist's sense of awe and reverence for Sunstreak, whose untamed spirit mirrors his own restless quest for understanding. Sunstreak becomes a symbol of the ineffable mysteries of existence, prompting the protagonist to confront the fundamental questions of life and death.

As the narrative reaches its climax, the protagonist's existential inquiries come to a head during a pivotal moment at the racetrack. In a moment of revelation, he experiences a profound sense of connection with Sunstreak, transcending the boundaries of self and other:

"I was glad that I had seen him run and I thought that I could feel his heart beating. For a moment I thought I could feel my own heart beating in unison with his."

Here, Anderson masterfully captures the protagonist's moment of epiphany, as he experiences a fleeting glimpse of the interconnectedness of all life. In this transcendent moment, the protagonist finds solace in the realization that he is not alone in his existential quest, but part of a larger, ineffable mystery that transcends individual experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Sherwood Anderson's "I Want to Know Why" stands as a timeless exploration of adolescence, identity, and existential inquiry. Through its vivid imagery, rich symbolism, and introspective narration, Anderson invites us into the inner world of his protagonist, as he grapples with the fundamental questions of existence. In the protagonist's quest for understanding, we see reflections of our own search for meaning and purpose in a world marked by uncertainty and flux. Ultimately, "I Want to Know Why" reminds us of the power of literature to illuminate the human experience, offering glimpses of insight and understanding that transcend the boundaries of time and place.

                                 Thank You.