I Want to Know Why by Sherwood Anderson

Sherwood Anderson's short story "I Want to Know Why" is a compelling exploration of youthful innocence, disillusionment, and the complexities of human nature. Published in 1921 as part of his collection "The Triumph of the Egg," this story stands out for its introspective narrative and poignant themes. Anderson, known for his modernist approach and psychological insight, crafts a tale that resonates deeply with readers, making it a timeless piece of American literature.

Writer's Information

Sherwood Anderson (1876-1941) was an influential American writer who played a significant role in the development of modernist literature. Born in Camden, Ohio, Anderson's early life was marked by poverty and instability, experiences that profoundly shaped his writing. He is best known for his short story cycle "Winesburg, Ohio," which examines the inner lives of small-town inhabitants. Anderson's work is characterized by its focus on psychological realism, introspection, and the complexities of human emotions.

Plot Summary

"I Want to Know Why" is narrated by an unnamed fifteen-year-old boy from Beckersville, Kentucky. The story begins with his passion for horses, a fascination that leads him and his friends to travel to Saratoga Springs to witness a horse race. The narrator's admiration for the horses and the trainers is palpable, especially his hero-worship of Jerry Tillford, a renowned trainer.

After the race, the boys follow Tillford to a hotel, hoping to glean more about the world of horse racing. However, the narrator is shattered when he sees Tillford drunk and in the company of a prostitute. This discovery conflicts with the narrator's idealized image of the trainer, leading him to question the nature of goodness and the complexity of human behavior.

Characters

1. The Narrator: A fifteen-year-old boy whose innocent perspective and passion for horses drive the narrative. His journey from admiration to disillusionment forms the crux of the story.

2. Jerry Tillford: A famous horse trainer idolized by the narrator. Tillford’s fall from grace in the narrator's eyes symbolizes the harsh realities of adulthood and the complexity of human nature.

3. The Narrator’s Friends: Accompany the narrator to Saratoga Springs, sharing his enthusiasm for horse racing but serving mainly as background characters in the story.

Themes

1. Innocence and Disillusionment: Central to the story is the narrator's journey from innocent admiration to painful disillusionment. His idealization of Tillford is shattered by the trainer’s moral failings, reflecting a loss of innocence and a deeper understanding of human complexity.

2. The Complexity of Human Nature: Anderson explores the multifaceted nature of humanity, highlighting the coexistence of admirable qualities and moral flaws within individuals. Tillford's duality as a skilled trainer and a flawed man exemplifies this theme.

3. The Quest for Understanding: The narrator’s repeated plea, "I want to know why," underscores a universal human desire to make sense of the world and its moral ambiguities. This theme resonates with readers, reflecting the often elusive nature of truth and understanding.

4. Idealization vs. Reality: The story delves into the dangers of idealizing people, as the narrator's perception of Tillford is built on an unrealistic pedestal. The harsh confrontation with reality teaches a valuable lesson about the complexities and imperfections inherent in everyone.

Title Significance

The title "I Want to Know Why" encapsulates the narrator's quest for understanding and the story's central theme. It reflects the universal human desire to comprehend the motivations and actions of others, especially when they contradict our expectations and ideals. This poignant phrase serves as a lens through which the entire narrative is viewed, emphasizing the narrator's struggle to reconcile his admiration with the harsh realities he encounters.

Background

Written in the early 20th century, a period marked by significant social and cultural shifts, "I Want to Know Why" reflects Anderson's modernist inclinations. The story's introspective nature and focus on individual experience are characteristic of modernist literature, which sought to capture the complexities of the human psyche and the fragmented nature of reality. Anderson's own experiences and observations of human behavior in small-town America profoundly influenced his writing, imbuing his stories with authenticity and psychological depth.

Moral of the Story

The moral of "I Want to Know Why" lies in its exploration of the painful but necessary transition from innocence to a more nuanced understanding of the world. It teaches that idealization can lead to disillusionment and that recognizing the complexity and imperfection of human nature is essential for personal growth. The story also underscores the importance of seeking understanding, even when answers are difficult or uncomfortable to confront.

Narrative Technique

Anderson employs a first-person narrative technique, allowing readers to experience the story through the eyes of the young narrator. This perspective creates an intimate and immediate connection with the protagonist, drawing readers into his emotional journey. The use of simple, direct language reflects the narrator's youthful innocence, while the introspective nature of the narrative provides psychological depth. Anderson's minimalist style and focus on internal experience are hallmarks of his modernist approach, enhancing the story's impact and resonance.

Conclusion

'I Want to Know Why' by Sherwood Anderson is a masterful exploration of youthful innocence, disillusionment, and the complexities of human nature. Through the eyes of a fifteen-year-old boy, Anderson delves into themes of idealization, the quest for understanding, and the multifaceted nature of humanity. The story's enduring relevance lies in its universal themes and the profound psychological insights it offers. As a testament to Anderson's literary prowess, "I Want to Know Why" continues to captivate and resonate with readers, inviting them to reflect on their own journeys of understanding and self-discovery.