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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Sula summary
Toni Morrison
Brief summary
Sula by Toni Morrison explores the complex friendship between two African-American women in a small Ohio town. Through their experiences, the book delves into themes of identity, freedom, and the consequences of societal expectations.
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Table of Contents
Sula
Summary of key ideas
Childhood Friends and Their Parting Ways
In Sula, Toni Morrison introduces us to Sula Peace and Nel Wright, best friends growing up in the African American community of the Bottom, in Ohio. Their bond is tested when, in a tragic incident, Sula accidentally causes the death of a young boy, Chicken Little. They keep the event a secret; however, the incident leaves a profound impact that shapes their futures differently. Nel opts for a conventional life, marrying Jude Greene and starting a family.
Sula, on the other hand, leaves the Bottom to pursue her individuality and freedom, attending college and living a bohemian life. This decision of Sula's contributes to a developing rift between the two women, establishing a central conflict in the narrative.
The Return of Sula and Its Repercussions
After ten years, Sula returns to the Bottom, significantly changed and seemingly indifferent to social norms. Upon her return, she resumes her friendship with Nel. However, their relationship takes a downward turn when Sula has an affair with Nel’s husband, Jude. This betrayal results in the end of Nel's marriage and precipitates a falling out between the childhood friends.
Sula's disregard for societal norms and moral standards isolates her from the community. Gradually, she becomes the embodiment of evil and the bearer of bad luck in the eyes of the townsfolk. Despite the alienation and loneliness, Sula remains unapologetic about her life choices.
The End of Life and a Moment of Epiphany
As Sula's life nears its end, she is left alone, unloved, and without any form of human connection. She dies alone, her death almost unnoticed by the community she once lived in. Despite their severed relationship, Nel attends Sula’s funeral, marking a notable loss in Nel’s life.
In the years following Sula's death, Nel comes to an unexpected realization. She mourns the loss of their friendship and the wasted years of anger. This moment of epiphany allows Nel to recognize the deep affection she held for Sula and the individuality that Sula always represented.
Exploring Themes Through A Poignant Narrative
In Sula, Morrison explores major themes of friendship, freedom, betrayal, and community through a narrative that revolves around the lives of two women. The story of Sula and Nel depicts how societal norms and personal choices can shape and destroy relationships. The book ultimately begs the question of who sets the standards of good and evil, as the town's condemnation of Sula is contrasted with her own understanding of herself and her actions.
In conclusion, Sula is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that explores complex themes through the female experience, providing us with a mirror to assess societal expectations and our own judgments of right and wrong.
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What is Sula about?
Sula by Toni Morrison (1973) is a gripping tale about friendship and the consequences of breaking societal norms. Set in a black community in Ohio, it follows the lives of two childhood friends, Sula and Nel, as they navigate love, loss, and betrayal. Morrison's powerful prose delves into themes of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of human relationships.
Who should read Sula?
- Readers seeking a thought-provoking exploration of friendship, identity, and choices
- Those interested in literature that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations
- Anyone looking to be captivated by Toni Morrison's immersive storytelling and lyrical prose
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