Final answer:
In "Sonny's Blues," the narrator observes that his students' laughter is sarcastic and mocking, indicative of a tough life. The story's title reflects the blues music central to Sonny's life and the overarching somber tone. The resolution shows the narrator's growing understanding of Sonny's world via his music.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the opening of "Sonny's Blues," the narrator observes that his students' laughter is filled with mockery and sarcasm, rather than carefree joy. This reflects the somber and bleak atmosphere of their environment and hints at the challenges that the students might be facing. The story examines themes of suffering, misunderstanding, and the redemptive power of music, as it unfolds the complex relationship between the narrator and his brother Sonny. The title "Sonny's Blues" refers to both the music that shapes Sonny's life and the overall tone of the story, which is suffused with a feeling of blues. Sonny is misrepresented by his brother, who often misjudges Sonny's life choices and fails to understand his passion for music. Eventually, witnessing Sonny's performance helps the narrator to gain a deeper appreciation for Sonny's struggles and talent, culminating in his decision to attend Sonny's concert at the end of the story.