Introduction to Sarty’s Struggle
In William Faulkner’s short story “Barn Burning,” we meet a young boy named Sartoris “Sarty” Snopes who is caught in the tumultuous world of family loyalty and moral conscience. At the heart of this narrative lies Sarty’s rebellion against his father, Abner Snopes, a man who embodies brutality and a profound disregard for societal norms. As we journey through Sarty’s internal conflict, we uncover how his struggle symbolizes a broader quest for identity and freedom from familial chains. The story serves as a poignant exploration of how one’s upbringing can conflict with personal values, ultimately leading to a desperate need for liberation.
The Weight of Family Loyalty
From the very beginning, Faulkner sets the stage by illustrating Sarty’s sense of duty towards his family. However, this loyalty feels more like an anchor than a source of strength. Abner Snopes is not just any father; he is an emblem of injustice and cruelty, often taking out his frustrations on those around him—including his own family. For young Sarty, watching his father commit acts of arson as an act of revenge against perceived slights becomes increasingly troubling. It’s as if he is living in two worlds: one that demands unwavering loyalty to his bloodline and another that calls for justice and morality.
The moment Sarty realizes that he must choose between standing by his father’s side or protecting innocent lives marks a pivotal shift in the narrative. His internal dialogue reveals a deep-rooted fear—not just of Abner but also the repercussions that come with betraying familial ties. This creates an emotional turmoil within him; it’s almost as if he’s shackled by the expectations set upon him simply because he shares blood with Abner.
The Moment of Rebellion
Sarty’s ultimate act of rebellion occurs at the climax when he decides to warn the de Spain family about Abner’s impending act of arson. This moment is electrifying because it signifies not only Sarty’s rejection of Abner but also his acceptance of personal responsibility over blind allegiance. By choosing to speak out, Sarty symbolically cuts himself free from the chains that have bound him since birth—he asserts that being part of a family does not mean condoning its wrongdoings.
This choice thrusts Sarty into uncharted territory; he must now navigate life outside the familial cocoon that has both protected and imprisoned him. It’s fascinating how Faulkner crafts this transformation—Sarty isn’t merely running away from home; he’s stepping into adulthood armed with moral clarity despite still being just a child physically.
The Cost of Freedom
But let’s pause for a moment—what exactly does freedom cost? For Sarty, breaking away from Abner comes at an enormous price: alienation from family and community. When he finally escapes into the woods after warning de Spain, there’s no celebratory fanfare—only solitude greets him in return for his brave decision. The forest represents both liberation and isolation; it offers safety but also symbolizes loneliness without familial support.
Sarty understands that while he’s gained autonomy, he’s also lost something invaluable—the comfort found in unconditional love or acceptance within one’s own tribe (however dysfunctional it may be). Faulkner doesn’t sugarcoat this duality; rather, he presents it as an inevitable reality faced by those who dare to challenge entrenched systems like abusive parental authority.
Conclusion: A Journey Towards Self-Discovery
In “Barn Burning,” Faulkner beautifully encapsulates what it means to break free from familial chains through Sarty’s journey—a process filled with pain yet brimming with potential growth toward self-discovery. By choosing justice over blind loyalty, Sarty emerges not merely as a rebellious son but as an individual carving out his own moral compass amidst chaos.
Ultimately, Sarty embodies countless individuals who find themselves grappling with similar conflicts: How do we honor our families while staying true to our values? What sacrifices are worth making in pursuit of integrity? Through careful analysis, it’s evident that Faulkner uses Sarty’s rebellion as more than just a plot device; it’s an exploration into what defines us beyond our names or lineage—a reflection on choice versus obligation in shaping one’s identity.
References
- Faulkner, William. “Barn Burning.” In Selected Short Stories. Vintage Books.
- Benson, Jackson J., ed., 1990.The Short Stories Of William Faulkner: A Critical Study.Palgrave Macmillan.
- Shelley Fisher Fishkin (1993). “From Fact to Fiction: Journalism and Literature in Antebellum America.” Oxford University Press.
- Parker, Robert Dale (1995). “How to Interpret Literature: Critical Theory for Literary and Cultural Studies.” Oxford University Press.
