Internal and External Conflict in "Blood Brother" by John Wickham and "Georgia and Them Thee" by Velma Pollard

  Internal and External Conflict in "Blood Brother" by John Wickham and "Georgia and Them Thee" by Velma Pollard Introduction Conflict is a fundamental element of storytelling, driving the plot and character development. In the short stories "Blood Brother" by John Wickham and "Georgia and Them Thee" by Velma Pollard, we witness both internal and external conflicts that shape the narratives. These conflicts provide insight into the characters' struggles and add depth to the stories. This essay will analyze the internal and external conflicts in both stories and explore their impact on the characters and overall themes. Internal Conflict in "Blood Brother" In "Blood Brother," the protagonist, Michael, faces an internal conflict as he grapples with his sense of duty towards his family and his desire for personal freedom. Throughout the story, Michael feels trapped between the expectations placed upon him by his family and his longing for a different life. This internal struggle is evident when he says, "I felt as if I were suffocating under my parents' expectations, their hopes for my future." This internal conflict not only affects Michael's emotional well-being but also drives his actions. It leads him to make choices that challenge societal norms and question his familial obligations. His internal conflict ultimately results in a tension-filled climax that forces him to confront his true desires and make a difficult decision. External Conflict in "Blood Brother" Alongside the internal conflict, "Blood Brother" also features external conflicts that arise from societal expectations, cultural differences, and generational gaps. Michael's desire to break free from his family's expectations clashes with the traditional values held by his parents. This external conflict is highlighted through the strained relationship between Michael and his father, who represents the older generation's beliefs and customs. Furthermore, the external conflict extends beyond Michael's immediate family to the broader community. As Michael attempts to forge his own path, he faces resistance and judgment from those around him. This external conflict adds tension to the narrative and highlights the challenges faced by individuals who deviate from societal norms. Internal Conflict in "Georgia and Them Thee" In "Georgia and Them Thee," the protagonist, Georgia, experiences an internal conflict related to her identity and sense of belonging. As a Jamaican immigrant living in England, Georgia struggles to reconcile her Jamaican heritage with her new environment. This internal conflict is evident when she says, "I felt torn between two worlds, never fully belonging to either." Georgia's internal struggle revolves around her cultural identity and the pressure to assimilate into English society. She faces a constant battle between embracing her Jamaican roots and adapting to her new home. This conflict is further intensified when she becomes romantically involved with an Englishman, causing her to question her loyalties and sense of self. External Conflict in "Georgia and Them Thee" In addition to her internal conflict, Georgia also faces external conflicts in "Georgia and Them Thee." The primary external conflict arises from the prejudices she encounters as a Jamaican immigrant. She experiences discrimination and racism from both individuals and institutions, which heightens her sense of alienation. Moreover, Georgia's relationship with her Jamaican community presents another layer of external conflict. As she strives to assimilate into English society, she faces criticism and disapproval from her fellow Jamaicans who perceive her as abandoning her roots. This external conflict highlights the complexities of navigating cultural identities in a foreign land. Conclusion In both "Blood Brother" by John Wickham and "Georgia and Them Thee" by Velma Pollard, internal and external conflicts play a significant role in shaping the characters' journeys. These conflicts add depth to the narratives, exploring themes of identity, cultural clashes, and societal expectations. By delving into the characters' internal struggles and external challenges, both stories offer insightful commentary on the human experience.

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