Sun and Shadow
A story of pride by Ray Bradbury
Plot and Theme
Ricardo, a man who is proud of his life and surrounding culture, is driven into a rage by a photographer arranging his photos in a quiet manner. Ricardo argues with the photographer and accuses him of being disrespectful to his community.
The theme, expressed by Ricardo is pride in your (his) community and lifestyle. Ricardo stands before the photographer and his neighbors to prove his point.
Literary Devices
Ray Bradbury uses multiple examples of indirect characterization. In Sun and Shadow, the only character he describes directly is the model. Using indirect characterization, the author allows the reader to create the characters for themselves.
Character Information
Ricardo
Ricardo was not hesitant to show his pride to his town and the foreign photographers. Dropping his pants in front of a camera, a police officer, and his neighbors shows his dedication. Through his actions, he was characterized indirectly.
Photographer
In my opinion, the photographer is not in the wrong. He wasn't abusing the setting, and was respectful to the townspeople, however, I am more similar to the photographer. Through his actions, he was characterized indirectly.
The Townspeople
First questioning Ricardo's actions, they slowly understood, and by the end of the story supported him. The townspeople were never described physically or by their actions, so they were indirectly characterized.
Major Conflict
Ricardo is enraged at the photographer taking pictures of his alley because of it's pretty shadows. Ricardo believes the photographer is using his son as cardboard cutout, and his alley as a background for the "correct air". Arguing with the photographer that he has disrespected his town, and treated it like a simple background.