“The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

“The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault first appeared in 1957, later finding a permanent place in her 1965 collection, The Mistress and Other Stories. The story’s enduring strength lies in its ability to explore profound emotional territory through a deceptively simple narrative. Berriault’s masterful use of perspective allows readers to experience a childhood tragedy from the viewpoint of a young boy, resulting in a hauntingly evocative and emotionally resonant tale.

Main Events in “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

1. Morning Routine: Arnold wakes up to find his brother Eugene still asleep and tries to rouse him for pea picking, highlighting their typical morning interactions and Arnold’s role as the younger sibling.
   • Example: Arnold’s attempt to wake Eugene shows their sibling dynamic, with Eugene’s dominance and Arnold’s subordinate position evident.
2. Preparations: Arnold gets his rifle and ammunition for potential duck hunting on their way to the garden, emphasizing the rural setting and the boys’ familiarity with firearms.
   • Example: Arnold’s choice of weapon and the casual nature of gun ownership in their family reflects their rural lifestyle and upbringing.
3. Family Dynamics: The relationship between Arnold and Eugene is explored, highlighting Eugene’s dominance as the eldest and Arnold’s admiration mixed with resentment.
   • Example: Eugene’s actions and demeanor demonstrate his authority within the family and how Arnold perceives him.
4. Outdoor Setting: The boys head out to the garden, passing by the farm and observing the landscape, setting the scene and establishing the rural environment.
   • Example: The description of the farm and the landscape around it paints a vivid picture of their surroundings, enhancing the story’s atmosphere.
5. Duck Hunting: Arnold and Eugene plan to hunt ducks by the lake, showcasing their typical activities and hobbies.
   • Example: The boys’ excitement about potential duck hunting adds depth to their characters and illustrates their shared interests.
6. Tragic Accident: While climbing through a wire fence, Arnold accidentally shoots Eugene, introducing the central conflict and driving the narrative forward.
   • Example: The suddenness and unexpectedness of the accident create tension and set the stage for the story’s emotional impact.
7. Discovery: Arnold realizes the severity of the situation when he sees Eugene’s injury, prompting a shift in tone and highlighting Arnold’s shock and confusion.
   • Example: Arnold’s reaction to seeing Eugene’s injury emphasizes the suddenness and gravity of the accident, adding depth to the story’s emotional resonance.
8. Response: Arnold’s initial shock and confusion lead him to continue with pea picking rather than seeking help immediately, showcasing his internal turmoil and the complexity of his emotions.
   • Example: Arnold’s decision to continue with pea picking despite the accident demonstrates his struggle to process what has happened and his inability to confront the situation directly.
9. Family Reaction: Arnold informs his family of the accident, causing shock and disbelief among them, illustrating the impact of the tragedy on the family unit.
   • Example: The family’s reaction to Arnold’s news underscores the gravity of the situation and the emotional turmoil experienced by all involved.
10. Community Involvement: The community rallies around the family, offering condolences and support, highlighting the interconnectedness of rural communities in times of crisis.
    • Example: The arrival of neighbors and friends to offer support showcases the close-knit nature of the community and their willingness to help one another in times of need.
11. Interrogation: Arnold faces questioning from the sheriff about the circumstances of the accident, adding a layer of tension and external scrutiny to the narrative.
    • Example: The sheriff’s interrogation of Arnold adds a sense of urgency and uncertainty to the story, as Arnold must navigate the legal and social consequences of his actions.
12. Misunderstanding: The sheriff and others struggle to understand Arnold’s seemingly calm demeanor, highlighting the complexity of Arnold’s emotions and the difficulty of expressing them.
    • Example: The sheriff’s confusion and suspicion towards Arnold’s behavior reflect the community’s inability to comprehend his internal struggles and emotional response to the tragedy.
13. Social Perception: Arnold is perceived as either emotionless or incredibly rational by the community, reflecting the community’s attempt to make sense of Arnold’s behavior in the aftermath of the accident.
    • Example: The community’s interpretation of Arnold’s actions underscores the story’s exploration of social perception and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
14. Internal Struggle: Arnold grapples with guilt and the perception of his actions, highlighting his internal conflict and emotional journey throughout the story.
    • Example: Arnold’s internal monologue and introspection reveal his struggle to come to terms with the accident and its consequences, adding depth to his character and motivations.
15. Resolution: Despite his family’s attempts to understand, Arnold retreats into himself, feeling disconnected and isolated, concluding the story with a sense of unresolved tension and emotional turmoil.
    • Example: Arnold’s withdrawal and emotional detachment at the end of the story emphasize the lasting impact of the tragedy on him and his family, leaving the reader with a poignant and introspective conclusion.

Literary Devices in “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Literary Device	Example from Story	Definition
Alliteration	his head drooping with sleepiness	The repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words or syllables.
Characterization	The portrayal of Arnold as a reserved and introspective young boy.	The process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character.
Conflict	The internal conflict Arnold experiences after accidentally shooting his brother Eugene.	A struggle between opposing forces which drives the plot of a story.
Dialogue	Conversations between Arnold and his family members after the accident.	The exchange of spoken words between characters in a literary work.
Flashback	Arnold recalling past interactions with Eugene as he reflects on their relationship.	An interruption of the chronological sequence of events to depict something that happened at an earlier time.
Foreshadowing	Eugene’s statement about Arnold’s rifle being loaded hints at the impending tragedy.	The use of hints or clues to suggest future events in a narrative.
Imagery	Description of the landscape and surroundings as Arnold and Eugene make their way through the farm.	The use of vivid language to create mental images or sensory impressions.
Irony	The sheriff’s suspicion towards Arnold’s calm demeanor, unaware of his internal turmoil.	A contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs, often with a humorous or poignant effect.
Metaphor	“His mind was a blank, like a blackboard erased.”	A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable, suggesting a resemblance or analogy between the two.
Mood	The somber and tense atmosphere following the accident.	The emotional atmosphere or feeling created by a literary work.
Personification	“The wind was pushing at his ears, his pant legs flapping softly against his legs.”	Giving human characteristics to non-human entities or abstract concepts.
Point of View	The story is narrated from Arnold’s perspective, offering insight into his thoughts and emotions.	The vantage point from which a story is told, determining the perspective of the narrative.
Repetition	The repetition of Eugene’s name throughout the story emphasizes his significance to Arnold.	The repeated use of words, phrases, or structures for emphasis or effect.
Setting	The rural farm where Arnold and his family live provides the backdrop for the story’s events.	The time and place in which a story takes place, establishing the context for the narrative.
Simile	“He looked at Eugene’s face, which was as blank as a white wall.”	A figure of speech comparing two unlike things using “like” or “as” to highlight their similarities.
Symbolism	The stone in Arnold’s pocket serves as a symbol of his guilt and the weight of his actions.	The use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts beyond their literal meaning.
Theme	The exploration of guilt, responsibility, and the complexity of human emotions in the aftermath of tragedy.	The central idea or underlying message of a literary work, often reflecting on universal human experiences or societal issues.
Tone	The tone of the story shifts from ordinary to somber and reflective after the accident.	The attitude or mood conveyed by the author towards the subject matter or audience, influencing the reader’s emotional response.
Tragedy	The accidental shooting of Eugene and its profound impact on Arnold and his family.	A serious and often sorrowful event or series of events in a narrative that elicits feelings of pity, fear, and catharsis in the audience.
Understatement	Arnold’s subdued reaction to Eugene’s injury, continuing with pea picking despite the severity of the situation.	The presentation of something as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is, often for ironic or humorous effect.

Characterization in “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Major Characters:

1. Arnold:
   • Example: Arnold is portrayed as introspective and emotionally distant, especially after the accidental shooting of his brother Eugene. He struggles with feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
   • Quote: “He watched it happen without any expression of surprise or alarm.”
2. Eugene:
   • Example: Eugene is depicted as playful and mischievous, often teasing Arnold. However, his character is tragically cut short by the accidental shooting.
   • Quote: “Arnold, you blockhead, that gun’s loaded.”
3. Joseph and Ruth:
   • Example: Arnold’s parents, Joseph and Ruth, are portrayed as distraught and emotionally overwhelmed by the tragedy. They exhibit concern for Arnold but also struggle with their own grief.
   • Quote: “But something terrible has happened,” said his mother. “Eugene’s been shot.”

Minor Characters:

1. Grandfather:
   • Example: The grandfather is briefly mentioned as a figure who has passed away but is still remembered by the family. His absence adds to the somber atmosphere of the story.
   • Quote: “I remember once my grandfather caught a skunk in one of those traps.”
2. The Sheriff:
   • Example: The sheriff appears as a figure of authority who investigates the shooting. He questions Arnold and observes his behavior, adding to the tension of the situation.
   • Quote: “‘Now, Arnold,’ said the sheriff, ‘you just take your time and try to remember everything that happened.'”
3. Uncle Andy:
   • Example: Uncle Andy is mentioned briefly, offering support to the family in the aftermath of the tragedy. His presence signifies the communal aspect of dealing with grief.
   • Quote: “And Uncle Andy stayed with them while Arnold picked peas.”

Major Themes in “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

1. Loss of Innocence: Arnold, the young protagonist, experiences a sudden and violent loss of innocence. The accidental shooting of his brother Eugie shatters his naive understanding of the world. This is shown in the way Arnold continues picking peas after the shooting, an act that seems strangely detached from the gravity of the situation.
2. Grief and the Inability to Express It: The story explores the difficulty of processing grief, particularly for a young boy. Arnold feels a sense of guilt and confusion, but struggles to express his emotions. This is evident when he tries to talk to his mother at night but is turned away.
3. Misunderstanding and Isolation: Arnold’s actions are misinterpreted by the adults around him, leading to suspicion and isolation. The Sheriff views Arnold’s calmness as a sign of coldness, and Arnold’s family seems to withdraw from him emotionally. This is shown in the way the family avoids eye contact with Arnold and how the adults discuss him amongst themselves.
4. The Weight of Expectation and the Search for Connection: Arnold desperately wants to be understood and accepted by his family, but feels he cannot live up to their expectations. He tries to connect with his parents by going to his mother’s room at night, but is rejected. This is also shown in the way Arnold volunteers to find the missing calf, a task typically done by his deceased brother.

Writing Style in “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

1. Descriptive Imagery: Berriault uses vivid descriptions to evoke the rural setting and the characters’ surroundings.
   • Example: “The sky was faintly gray, almost white. The mountains behind the farm made the sun climb a long way to show itself.”
2. Stream of Consciousness: The narrative often delves into the protagonist’s inner thoughts and feelings, providing insights into his psyche.
   • Example: “He awoke suddenly. He knew that his father was out in the yard, closing the doors of the chicken houses so that the chickens could not roam out too early…”
3. Symbolism: Berriault employs symbolic elements to convey deeper meanings and themes within the story.
   • Example: The title itself, “The Stone Boy,” can be interpreted as a metaphor for Arnold’s emotional detachment and numbness following the tragic event.
4. Subtle Foreshadowing: The author subtly hints at the impending tragedy through foreshadowing, creating tension and anticipation.
   • Example: “Then Arnold saw it, under the tendril of hair at the nape of the neck–a slow rising of bright blood.”
5. Concise Dialogue: Berriault’s dialogue is often concise and reflective of the characters’ emotions, contributing to the realism of the narrative.
   • Example: “No,” Arnold said. “They would want to know why Eugie wasn’t coming in for breakfast he thought. ‘Eugie’s dead,’ he told them.”
6. Character Introspection: The story delves into the internal struggles and conflicts of the characters, offering insights into their psyches.
   • Example: “Arnold, watching his brother sleeping, felt a peculiar dismay; he was nine, six years younger than Eugie and in their waking hours it was he who was subordinate.”
7. Atmospheric Setting: Berriault creates a palpable sense of atmosphere through her descriptions of the rural landscape and the family’s farm.
   • Example: “Out in the kitchen the voices of Orion’s wife and of Mrs. Sullivan mingled with Nora’s voice but not, Arnold noticed, his mother’s.”

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Example from the Story
Psychoanalytic Theory	The story explores the unconscious mind and the impact of trauma on a child’s psyche. Arnold’s detachment after the shooting reflects a defense mechanism to cope with overwhelming emotions.	* Arnold’s act of picking peas after the shooting can be seen as a form of denial or repression of his grief. * His inability to cry or express outward signs of sadness suggests a disconnect from his emotions.
Reader-Response Theory	The meaning of the story is constructed by the reader’s individual experiences and interpretations. Readers may have varying perspectives on Arnold’s actions and motivations.	* Some readers might view Arnold as cold and unfeeling due to his calmness after the shooting. * Others may see him as overwhelmed and struggling to process the trauma, leading to his seemingly emotionless behavior.

Additional Notes:

• The story could also be analyzed through the lens of other theories, such as Feminist Theory (exploring gender roles) or Marxist Theory (looking at social class dynamics).
• The lack of a clear explanation for Arnold’s behavior allows for multiple interpretations, adding to the story’s complexity.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
Guilt and Blame	How does Arnold’s family react to his actions?	In “The Stone Boy,” Berriault explores the theme of guilt and blame through Arnold’s family’s reactions, revealing the complexity of human emotions in the face of tragedy.
Loss of Innocence	How does Arnold’s perception of the world change after the accident?	Berriault illustrates the loss of innocence in “The Stone Boy” as Arnold grapples with the consequences of his actions, shedding light on the fragility of childhood innocence in the face of harsh reality.
Family Dynamics	How does the tragedy affect the dynamics within Arnold’s family?	“The Stone Boy” delves into the intricate dynamics of family relationships, portraying how tragedy can either strengthen or fracture familial bonds, ultimately highlighting the resilience of the family unit.
Redemption	Is there a possibility of redemption for Arnold?	Through Arnold’s journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with his family, Berriault suggests that redemption is attainable even in the aftermath of a tragic event, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness and acceptance.
Symbolism	What does the stone symbolize in the story?	The stone in “The Stone Boy” serves as a poignant symbol of Arnold’s emotional detachment and sense of alienation, reflecting his internal turmoil and the weight of his guilt as he grapples with the tragic consequences of his actions.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

• Question: How does the accident affect Arnold’s relationship with his family?
• Answer: The accident deepens the existing divide between Arnold and his family, exacerbating feelings of isolation and guilt. For instance, after the accident, Arnold feels estranged from his parents, as depicted in the following quote: “Arnold said nothing. He felt remote from his parents.” This emotional distance underscores the strain on their familial bond.
• Question: How does Arnold cope with the guilt of his actions?
• Answer: Arnold copes with the guilt by emotionally withdrawing from the situation and adopting a stoic demeanor. This is evident when Arnold reflects on the accident: “He had shot his brother. It was as simple as that.” Arnold’s simplistic acknowledgment of the event highlights his attempt to distance himself from the emotional weight of his actions.
• Question: What role does the stone play in the story?
• Answer: The stone serves as a tangible symbol of Arnold’s emotional numbness and detachment from the tragedy. For example, when Arnold is asked about the incident, he responds with indifference, stating, “It was an accident. There is nothing to talk about.” This apathetic attitude parallels Arnold’s characterization as emotionally hardened, akin to the stone he carries.
• Question: How does the community react to Arnold’s family in the aftermath of the accident? Answer: The community’s response reflects a mix of sympathy and judgment toward Arnold’s family. Despite their condolences, there’s an underlying sense of scrutiny, as illustrated by their whispered conversations: “Their faces were gray and on their faces was a kind of relief mixed with disappointment.” This reaction underscores the societal pressure and stigma associated with tragic events within a small community.

Literary Works Similar to “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

1. “We Need to Talk About Kevin” by Lionel Shriver: This novel delves into a mother’s troubled relationship with her son, Kevin, who commits a horrific act of violence at school. Similar to “The Stone Boy,” it explores the complexities of grief, guilt, and societal expectations.
2. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls: This coming-of-age story follows a young boy named Billy who raises and trains two redbone coonhounds. While seemingly lighter in tone, it touches on similar themes of loss and the emotional vulnerability of childhood. The sudden death of one of the dogs forces Billy to confront grief and the harsh realities of life.
3. Fun Home by Alison Bechdel: This graphic novel is a memoir by Bechdel, who grapples with her complex relationship with her deceased father. It explores themes of grief, family secrets, and the struggle to understand oneself. Like “The Stone Boy,” it uses a detached and sometimes unemotional narrative voice to portray the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
4. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold: This novel is narrated by a young girl, Susie Salmon, who is murdered. She watches from heaven as her family and friends cope with her death. Similar to “The Stone Boy,” it explores the impact of trauma on those left behind and the difficulty of expressing grief, particularly for children.
5. Lord of the Flies by William Golding: This classic novel depicts a group of schoolboys stranded on a deserted island. As their civilized veneer crumbles, they descend into violence and savagery. While not directly dealing with death in the family, it explores the loss of innocence and the fragility of human nature in the face of trauma.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Books:

• Berriault, Gina. The Selected Stories of Gina Berriault. Viking, 1984. (This collection includes “The Stone Boy”)

Articles:

• Wolf, Julia. “The Stone Boy Characters.” GradeSaver, 28 Oct. 2017. https://www.gradesaver.com/the-stone-boy (Analysis of characters in “The Stone Boy”)
• Stapleton, Mallory. “Gina Berriault: A Master of the Short Story.” The New Yorker, 19 Dec. 2014. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/06/08/effort-and-ability-2 (Biographical information on Gina Berriault with a focus on her short stories)

Websites:

• “The Stone Boy Background.” GradeSaver, 19 June 2017. https://www.gradesaver.com/the-stone-boy (Background information on “The Stone Boy” including plot, setting, characters, and narrator)
• “The Stone Boy | Encyclopedia.com.” Encyclopedia.com, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stone_Boy_%28short_story%29. (Overview of “The Stone Boy” with a focus on the writing style)

Representative Quotations from “The Stone Boy” by Gina Berriault

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“Arnold, watching his brother sleeping, felt a peculiar dismay; he was nine, six years younger than Eugie and in their waking hours it was he who was subordinate.”	Arnold observes his older brother, Eugie, sleeping and feels a sense of inferiority due to their age difference.	This quote highlights the power dynamics between Arnold and Eugie, establishing Arnold’s subordinate position within the family hierarchy.
“He began to laugh deliriously making soft, snorting noises, and was thrown off the bed.”	Arnold’s laughter escalates to an uncontrollable level, leading to him being thrown off the bed by his brother.	The laughter serves as a coping mechanism for Arnold, masking his underlying feelings of unease and guilt over the forthcoming tragic event.
“It was a warmth on his back, like a large hand laid firmly there, that made him raise his head.”	Arnold feels a comforting warmth on his back as he works in the garden, which prompts him to lift his head.	This imagery suggests a moment of solace amidst Arnold’s internal turmoil, symbolizing the fleeting moments of peace he experiences amidst the tragedy.
“‘Did you get a duck?’ ‘No,’ Arnold said. ‘Eugie’s dead,’ he told them.”	Arnold reveals Eugie’s death to his family during breakfast, shocking them with the abruptness of his statement.	Arnold’s blunt announcement showcases his emotional detachment and the difficulty he faces in expressing his grief and processing the tragedy.
“He’s either a moron or he’s so reasonable that he’s way ahead of us.”	The sheriff contemplates Arnold’s behavior after the shooting, suggesting that Arnold’s calm demeanor may indicate either extreme rationality or a lack of emotion.	This quote reflects the community’s struggle to comprehend Arnold’s actions, questioning whether his behavior is a sign of emotional detachment or a deeper understanding beyond their comprehension.
“Not a tear in his eye. He don’t give a hoot, is that how it goes?”	Sullivan comments on Arnold’s lack of emotional display, implying that Arnold doesn’t care about his brother’s death.	The remark highlights the community’s perception of Arnold as unfeeling, contributing to his sense of isolation and alienation following the tragedy.
“‘Was you knocking at my door last night?’…‘I didn’t want nothing,’ he said flatly.”	Arnold’s mother confronts him about his nocturnal visit, but Arnold denies any ulterior motive, shutting down the conversation.	Arnold’s refusal to engage with his mother’s inquiry underscores his reluctance to confront his emotions or discuss the traumatic event, further isolating himself from his family.
“He could switch the cow down the mountain and the calf would run along at its mother’s side.”	Arnold decides to take on Eugie’s task of finding a missing calf, symbolizing his attempt to fill the void left by his brother.	By assuming Eugie’s responsibilities, Arnold seeks to maintain a sense of normalcy and continuity within the family, despite the profound loss they have experienced.
“‘What’d you want?’ she asked humbly. ‘I didn’t want nothing,’ he said flatly.”	Arnold’s mother attempts to connect with him, but Arnold rebuffs her efforts, maintaining his emotional distance.	This exchange highlights the strained relationship between Arnold and his mother, characterized by a lack of communication and understanding, further deepening Arnold’s sense of isolation.
“Then he went out the door and down the back steps, his legs trembling from the fright his answer gave him.”	Arnold’s physical reaction to his own response indicates his internal turmoil and fear of facing the consequences of his actions.	Arnold’s trembling legs symbolize his vulnerability and the weight of his guilt, suggesting that despite his outward stoicism, he is deeply affected by the events that have transpired.