In the short story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” by Evan Hunter, the author masterfully develops the characters to convey a deeper understanding of the themes and conflicts presented. Through the use of vivid descriptions and internal monologues, the reader is able to see the complex emotions and struggles faced by the characters.
The main character, Andy, is a sixteen-year-old boy who belongs to a gang called the Royals. He is defined by his loyalty to his gang and his strong sense of identity as a Royal. However, when Andy is stabbed by a rival gang, the Guardians, he is left alone on the sidewalk, bleeding and struggling for his life. The author portrays Andy as a symbol of the consequences of gang violence, highlighting the devastating effects it can have on individuals and their communities.
Andy’s girlfriend, Laura, is another important character in the story. She is characterized as a caring and compassionate person who is deeply affected by Andy’s predicament. Despite the dangers associated with being affiliated with a gang, Laura demonstrates her loyalty and love for Andy by staying by his side and trying to ensure his safety. Through her actions, the author explores the theme of love and its ability to transcend societal expectations and boundaries.
Overall, “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” is a thought-provoking story that delves into the complexities of identity, loyalty, and love in the face of adversity. The characterization of Andy and Laura provides insight into the consequences of gang violence and the strength of human connection. Through their experiences, the reader is encouraged to reflect on the importance of empathy and understanding in a society marked by violence and division.
Andy – The Protagonist
Andy, the main character of “On the Sidewalk Bleeding,” is a sixteen-year-old boy who is part of a gang called The Royals. He is portrayed as a strong and confident individual who takes pride in his gang affiliation. Andy is also described as being tall and handsome, with a muscular build, which adds to his sense of self-assurance.
However, the story takes a tragic turn when Andy is stabbed by members of a rival gang, The Guardians. Despite the severity of his injuries, Andy manages to crawl to the sidewalk, where he spends his final moments reflecting on his life and the choices he has made. This demonstrates his resilience and determination even in the face of death.
- Loyal: Andy’s loyalty to The Royals is evident throughout the story. Despite being attacked by The Guardians, he refuses to remove his jacket with The Royals’ insignia, symbolizing his unwavering dedication to his gang.
- Identity: Andy’s close affiliation with The Royals plays a significant role in shaping his identity. He has adopted the gang’s values and beliefs, viewing himself as a protector of their territory. His strong sense of identity is ultimately challenged, however, as he begins to question how others perceive him without his gang affiliation.
- Fear: In his final moments, Andy experiences fear and regret. He wonders if anyone will find him and mourns the lost opportunities in his life. These emotions highlight his vulnerability and the profound impact that his gang association has had on his sense of self.
Andy’s character provides a thought-provoking exploration of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s choices. Through his journey, readers are asked to reflect on their own perceptions of youth gang culture and the tragic outcomes that can result from such affiliations.
Laura – Andy’s Girlfriend
Laura is a pivotal character in the short story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” by Evan Hunter. She plays a significant role in Andy’s life and in the overall theme of the story. As Andy’s girlfriend, Laura’s character is portrayed as caring and compassionate, as well as deeply affected by the events unfolding around her.
Appearance: Laura is described as beautiful, with long dark hair and a warm smile. Her appearance is important in highlighting the contrast between Andy’s desire to be seen as an individual, not just a member of a gang, and the preconceived notions people may have based on his appearance as a member of the Royals.
Despite her initial fear and hesitation upon finding Andy wounded in the alley, Laura quickly demonstrates her love and loyalty towards him. She puts his well-being above her own safety, showing her character’s strength and unwavering support. Laura’s willingness to go against societal norms and stay with Andy, even though it puts her at risk, reveals her courage and deep bond with him.
Laura’s Role:
- Love and Support: Laura’s presence in the story provides a stark contrast to the indifference of the passersby who ignore Andy’s plea for help. She represents the power of love and the importance of human connection in moments of crisis.
- Breaking Stereotypes: Laura challenges the stereotypes associated with gang members and highlights the individual behind the label. Her unwavering commitment to Andy regardless of his association with the Royals shows that people should not be judged solely based on their appearance or affiliations.
- Moral Compass: Laura serves as a moral compass in the story. Through her actions and decisions, she showcases the power of empathy and compassion, leaving readers with a profound message about the importance of recognizing the humanity in others.
The Guardians – The Rival Gang
The Guardians, often referred to as the “Rats” by the protagonist Andy, are the rival gang in the story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding.” They are portrayed as a group of aggressive and ruthless individuals who are constantly on the lookout for fights and conflicts. They are known for their distinctive leather jackets with a skull and crossbones emblem, which symbolizes their sense of fearlessness and rebellion.
The members of the Guardians have a strong sense of loyalty towards their gang, and they maintain a united front against their enemies. They are always ready to defend their territory and maintain control over their territory. They roam the streets with a sense of arrogance and superiority, often intimidating others with their presence. The Guardians have a hierarchical structure, with the leader being the one who makes the final decisions and directs the actions of the gang members.
Characteristics of the Guardians:
- Aggressive – The Guardians are known for their aggressive behavior, always looking for opportunities to assert their dominance and prove their toughness.
- Loyal – The members of the Guardians have a strong sense of loyalty towards their gang, always standing up for each other and defending their gang’s reputation.
- Territorial – The Guardians are territorial, constantly asserting their control over their neighborhood and protecting it from other rival gangs.
- Sense of superiority – The Guardians have a sense of superiority over others, often intimidating and belittling individuals who are not part of their gang.
- Ruthless – The Guardians do not hesitate to use violence to settle disputes or maintain their dominance, often leaving their enemies with severe injuries.
The Guardians play a significant role in Andy’s transformation throughout the story. They represent the violence and danger that permeate Andy’s life, ultimately leading to his tragic fate.
The Old Lady and the Man – The Indifferent Passersby
The story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” explores the themes of societal indifference and prejudice through the interactions of the old lady and the man who encounter the dying protagonist, Andy. These two characters represent the larger population that remains apathetic and unwilling to help those in need.
The old lady, described as having a “parasol and basketwork basket,” symbolizes the more privileged and comfortable members of society. Despite Andy’s desperate pleas for help, she simply walks by without acknowledging his existence. Her lack of compassion highlights the indifference that permeates society, as she fails to recognize the urgency of the situation and instead focuses on her own priorities.
The man, described as wearing a raincoat and holding a newspaper, is also portrayed as indifferent and uninterested in Andy’s plight. He walks past Andy quickly and without hesitation, showing a disregard for human life and suffering. Like the old lady, the man prioritizes his own concerns over the well-being of others, exemplifying the larger societal problem of disconnect and indifference towards those who are marginalized or in need.
- The old lady’s refusal to help Andy and the man’s indifference towards him serve as a stark reminder of the broader societal issue of apathy and prejudice.
- Through these characters, the author emphasizes the need for empathy and compassion towards others, especially those who may be marginalized or in dire situations.
- The old lady and the man represent the larger population who often turn a blind eye to the suffering of others, perpetuating a cycle of indifference and social inequality.
In conclusion, the characters of the old lady and the man in “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” embody the indifference and apathy that society often displays towards those in need. Their lack of compassion serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding, and highlights the need for societal change in order to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Officer Delacroix – The Sympathetic Policeman
Officer Delacroix in “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” is portrayed as a sympathetic policeman who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. When he first encounters Andy, the protagonist who is fatally stabbed, Delacroix immediately recognizes him as a member of the notorious Royal gang. However, instead of prejudging Andy based on his affiliation, Delacroix sees him as a young boy in need of help. This shows the officer’s ability to look beyond stereotypes and treat individuals with compassion.
Throughout the story, Officer Delacroix demonstrates his sympathy by trying to comfort Andy and ease his suffering. When Andy reveals his name and identity, Delacroix acknowledges him as a person rather than simply another criminal. He treats Andy with kindness, assuring him that they will get him help and that everything will be alright. Despite knowing the grim reality of Andy’s situation, Delacroix remains empathetic and offers him a sense of hope in his final moments.
- Delacroix’s sympathy is further highlighted when he makes an effort to understand Andy’s perspective. He asks Andy about his feelings and his wishes, showing genuine concern for his young life cut short. This demonstrates Delacroix’s ability to connect with people on a deeper level, despite their circumstances or past actions.
- Moreover, Delacroix’s sympathy extends beyond Andy himself. He recognizes the impact of the gang culture on young individuals and laments the loss of potential and innocence. This reveals his understanding of the systemic issues that contribute to violence and highlights his commitment to making a difference. Delacroix sees beyond the surface and recognizes the complexity of each person’s story.
In conclusion, Officer Delacroix’s characterization as a sympathetic policeman in “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” showcases his ability to empathize and care for others, regardless of their background or actions. He treats Andy with kindness, offers him comfort, and seeks to understand his perspective, ultimately demonstrating his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
The Ambulance Crew – The Symbol of Hope
Throughout the story “On the Sidewalk Bleeding,” the ambulance crew plays a vital role and serves as a symbol of hope. They represent the possibility of rescue and salvation for Andy, the main character, even in his dire situation.
The ambulance crew members are depicted as highly skilled professionals who respond promptly to emergency calls, prioritizing the preservation of human life. Their presence on the scene brings a glimmer of hope to Andy and the readers, who anxiously wait to see if he will be saved in time. They symbolize the possibility of a second chance, an opportunity for Andy to rewrite his fate and escape the predetermined outcome of his gang affiliation.
The crew’s actions throughout the story reflect their commitment and dedication to their work. They treat Andy with care and urgency, demonstrating their professional ethos and concern for every life they encounter. Their efforts to save Andy’s life also highlight the values of compassion and empathy, reminding the readers that in times of crisis, humanity can prevail.
Moreover, the ambulance crew represents the larger societal fabric that exists beyond the violent world of gangs. They provide a glimpse into the world of law enforcement, rescue, and healthcare, emphasizing the contrast between the chaos of the streets and the order established by those who dedicate their lives to serving and saving others.
In conclusion, the ambulance crew in “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” serves as a symbol of hope and the possibility of redemption. Their presence and actions highlight the belief in the value of every human life, even one like Andy’s, who is caught in a cycle of violence. They represent the hope for a better future and remind us that compassion and rescue can emerge even in the darkest of times.