Here's a breakdown of the story:
Setting: The story takes place in the 1930s, during the Great Depression, in the hills of eastern Kentucky. The backdrop of poverty and hardship is ever-present, influencing the characters' lives and choices.
Plot Summary: Bud, a young boy, is deeply fascinated by the sky and its mysteries. His father is a hardworking farmer, and Bud spends his days helping him with chores. However, Bud's main interest is in observing the world around him, especially the sky. He yearns for a "clearing in the sky" where he can see the "golden city" he believes exists.
One day, Bud and his father travel to a nearby town for supplies. While there, Bud stumbles upon an old, abandoned well. It's a place that evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue for Bud. The well becomes a symbol of the unknown and the potential for adventure.
As Bud grows older, he begins to understand the realities of his life in the impoverished community. He realizes that opportunities are limited, and his dreams of a "clearing in the sky" seem distant and unattainable. His father, meanwhile, struggles to provide for the family and grapples with his own disappointments.
Despite these challenges, Bud maintains a spark of hope and curiosity. He continues to look at the sky, searching for that "clearing," a symbol of his dreams and aspirations. The story ends with Bud still yearning for something beyond his current reality, leaving the reader to wonder if he will ever find his own "clearing in the sky."
Themes:
* The Power of Dreams and Imagination: Bud's fascination with the sky and his belief in a "golden city" represent the power of dreams and imagination, even in the face of hardship.
* Poverty and Limited Opportunities: The story portrays the harsh realities of poverty in rural America during the Depression, highlighting the limitations it imposes on the lives of individuals.
* Father-Son Relationship: The relationship between Bud and his father is complex and poignant, showcasing the love, disappointment, and unspoken understanding that exists between them.
* Coming of Age: The story explores the process of coming of age, as Bud gradually transitions from a child with boundless dreams to a young man facing the realities of his life.
* Hope and Perseverance: Despite the hardships he faces, Bud holds onto hope and continues to yearn for something better, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
Overall: "Clearing in the Sky" is a moving story about the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people, showcasing the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit. It offers a glimpse into a simpler time and a reminder of the importance of hope and wonder.