Sonny's Blues Lesson Plan

What is the significance of the revival meeting?

Students might see several different meanings to the revival meeting. One might be the sense of social context. Harlem is a neighborhood where many are suffering, but manage to believe in something in spite of that pain, or perhaps even because of it. This provides some context for Sonny and his drug use. In addition, it shows a distinct power to music, one that might prime the narrator for understanding what happens at the club that night. Students might come up with many other interpretations, but each should be grounded in text and provide specific evidence.

What stands out to you about Sonny's description of addiction?...