If I had my way, I"d take that shotgun and a load o" buckshots and - but what's the use" (220). Emile is a hard-working man, struggling to make a better life for himself and his family. He cannot afford the luxury of buying a horse to assist him with his farming. Instead, he has to endure his hard labor with a mule, an animal common amongst the poor, working class. Although his economic situation is uncomfortable for him, it is evident in his monologue the he is not one to surrender to adverse circumstances; but one who realizes his struggle, deals with the anguish that it brings, and anticipates a better day. Emile is a man very close to his family. This is apparent in the interactions with his wife, his son, and his mother. He and his wife, Leola, have a very close relationship. He has an enormous respect for his mother, Aunt Lou, and displays a strong confidence in his son, Chuckkie. He allows Chuckkie to drive the mule into the gate once they reach Aunt Fe's house. Although Chuckkie is a child, and not experienced enough to guide the mule, Emile allows him to explore, and gives him a chance to perform a "manly" duty. This is a very important, and pivotal moment between father and son, illustrating the parent-child connection.
Emile also displays a great deal of hope and optimism. He hopes for a more comfortable life; one that has less struggle, and more contentment.
He take the lines and I jump down on the ground to open.
The old beat-up gate. I see Etienne's horse in the yard, and.
I see Chris new red tractor "side the house, shining in the rain.
When Mama die, I say to myself, Mr. Bascom, you going.
Ever"body getting tractors and horses and I"m still stuck with.
You. You going, brother. (221).
Yet another revelation exposed in Emile's monologue is the intimacy of the community. He travels along with his family to bid farewell to Aunt Fe, and there is a familiarity amongst those who have come to Aunt Fe's house for that same reason.