Gaines' Short Story, "Just Like A Tree" "Ernest J. Gaines, in his short story, "Just Like a Tree," does an extraordinary job at familiarizing his readers with each character. By using the literary technique known as stream-of-consciousness, readers are able to relate to the characters, and discover them in a more personal light. The narration of "Just like a Tree," shifts from one character to another. Normally, this style is confusing to some audiences. However, Gaines" use of this technique reveals certain insightful truths about each character; and evokes a rare and in-depth understanding about the circumstances in the story. Gaines approaches the story from many perspectives. Through monologues, he illuminates the feelings of the insiders: those family members and close friends directly effected by the conflict in the story, as well as the feelings of the outsiders: those obliquely effected by the conflict in the story. The discord in "Just Like a Tree," is centered around the reality that Aunt Fe, a well-known and highly respected woman in the community, is moving north, away from all of the loved ones who cherish her and need her. Although everyone appears to be effected in some way or another, there are two characters whose monologues reveal the character of the community as a whole, while revealing certain truths about themselves. Emile, in his monologue, displays optimism, determination, sensitivity, and hope. In addition to these personal characteristics, Emile also reveals the intimacy and the intense struggle of his community. Anne-Marie Duvall, in her monologue, demonstrates sacrifice, sensitivity, and her appreciation for family. Along with these distinctive qualities, she demonstrates the veracity of the separation between blacks and whites in the community, as well as Aunt Fe's significance to the neighborhood as a whole.
"Darn cane crop to finish getting in and only a mule and a half to do it.
