Because of society's constricting definitions of manhood, Rufus repulsed Eric's affection. We also learn of Rufus's former lover-another southerner, Eric Jones. Leona becomes the receptacle for his racial and self hatred and goes insane. However, hegemonic oppression engenders an acute malaise in Rufus. Rufus also finds momentary solace with Leona, a white southerner. Ironically, Rufus's premature suicide catalyzes the other characters' physical and spiritual journeys.Ī fledgling Greenwich Village jazz drummer, Rufus symbolizes American and existential loneliness we first encounter him “peddling his ass.” Psychologically and physically eviscerated, he is rescued temporarily by Vivaldo Moore, his Italian American best friend. Baldwin based him on Eugene Worth, a friend who committed suicide like Worth, Rufus jumps from the George Washington Bridge. Arguably James Baldwin's most tortured protagonist, Rufus Scott of Another Country (1962) reflects the author's view of the artist as prophet.
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