By smartcubs In O. Henry’s short story “The Last Leaf,” Sue is one of the central characters. She is a young artist living in Greenwich Village, sharing an apartment with her friend Johnsy. Sue’s character embodies qualities of compassion, determination, and resilience as she navigates the challenges posed by her friend’s illness and her own struggles as an artist.
Sue
Appearance and Background
- Origin: Sue is a young artist originally from Maine. She moved to Greenwich Village to pursue her passion for art and to live in a vibrant community of fellow artists.
- Appearance: While the story does not provide a detailed description of Sue’s physical appearance, she is often depicted as a warm and caring individual, with a presence that exudes kindness and strength.
Personality Traits
- Compassionate and Caring: Sue’s compassion is evident in her dedication to caring for her sick friend, Johnsy. She remains by Johnsy’s side, offering support and encouragement during her illness.
- Optimistic and Encouraging: Despite the bleak situation, Sue maintains an optimistic outlook. She tries to instill hope in Johnsy, reassuring her that she will recover and that better days are ahead.
- Resilient and Determined: Sue’s resilience is demonstrated by her determination to support herself and Johnsy through their art, even when facing financial difficulties. She continues to work hard, balancing her responsibilities as an artist and a caregiver.
- Practical and Resourceful: Sue is practical and resourceful in her efforts to provide for herself and Johnsy. She finds ways to make ends meet and ensures that Johnsy receives the care and attention she needs.
Key Relationships
- Johnsy: Sue’s relationship with Johnsy is central to the story. The two share a deep friendship, and Sue’s commitment to Johnsy’s well-being is unwavering. She tries to uplift Johnsy’s spirits and does everything in her power to help her recover from pneumonia.
- Mr. Behrman: Sue also shares a connection with their elderly neighbor, Mr. Behrman, who is a fellow artist. She respects him and seeks his help when Johnsy’s condition worsens, demonstrating her trust in the tight-knit artist community.
Struggles and Triumphs
- Johnsy’s Illness: One of Sue’s major struggles is dealing with Johnsy’s severe pneumonia. Johnsy becomes convinced that she will die when the last leaf falls from a vine outside their window, and Sue must cope with her friend’s declining mental and physical health.
- Artistic Pursuits: Sue faces the typical struggles of a young artist trying to make a living from her passion. She works hard to sell her art and sustain herself and Johnsy in their small apartment.
- Maintaining Hope: Despite the challenges, Sue’s triumph lies in her ability to maintain hope and positivity. Her efforts to cheer up Johnsy and her collaboration with Mr. Behrman highlight her enduring spirit.
Symbols and Themes
- Symbol of Friendship and Sacrifice: Sue represents the theme of friendship and sacrifice. Her selfless care for Johnsy and her willingness to seek help from Mr. Behrman illustrate the lengths she is willing to go to save her friend.
- Theme of Hope and Perseverance: Sue’s character embodies hope and perseverance. She never gives up on Johnsy, constantly encouraging her to fight her illness and believe in her recovery.
- Art and Inspiration: Sue’s dedication to her art, despite the hardships, underscores the theme of art as a source of inspiration and sustenance in difficult times.
Key Moments
- Caring for Johnsy: Sue’s constant care and encouragement for Johnsy during her illness highlight her compassion and strength.
- Seeking Mr. Behrman’s Help: When Sue realizes that she cannot lift Johnsy’s spirits alone, she seeks help from Mr. Behrman, showing her resourcefulness and willingness to do whatever it takes to save her friend.
- Reaction to the Last Leaf: When the last leaf miraculously remains on the vine, Sue uses this event to bolster Johnsy’s hope, demonstrating her ability to find and foster hope in seemingly hopeless situations.
Quotes from the Story
- “She smoothed Johnsy’s forehead with her cool hand.”
- “She coaxed Johnsy’s mind back from its wandering. She brought her a bowl of hot soup.”
Sue’s character in “The Last Leaf” is a testament to the power of friendship, compassion, and hope. Her unwavering dedication to Johnsy, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her practical yet hopeful nature make her a memorable and inspiring figure. Through Sue, O. Henry illustrates the profound impact of love and support in overcoming life’s greatest challenges.