Walter Dean Myers' "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" is a poignant short story exploring the complex relationship between a father and son, Greg and Lemon Brown. While the story appears simple on the surface, it delves into a multi-layered conflict that resonates far beyond a simple plot summary. The central conflict isn't just a single event, but rather a weaving together of internal and external struggles.
The External Conflict: Greg's Misunderstanding of His Father
The most obvious conflict is the external one between Greg and his father. Greg, a young teenager, is frustrated by his father's lack of financial success and what he perceives as a lack of ambition. He feels his father is holding him back from achieving his own goals, particularly his aspirations to become a basketball player. This tension is evident in Greg's initial dismissal of Lemon Brown and his seemingly worthless possessions. He prioritizes material wealth and tangible success, a stark contrast to Lemon Brown's perspective.
This external conflict acts as a catalyst, forcing Greg to confront his own preconceived notions about success and value. The encounter with Lemon Brown challenges Greg's superficial judgment and forces him to reconsider his relationship with his father.
The Subtext: Generational Differences and Societal Expectations
The external conflict between Greg and his father is further complicated by generational differences and societal expectations. Greg's focus on basketball and material success reflects the contemporary values of his time, while his father's experiences and priorities stem from a different era and a different understanding of success. This clash highlights the broader societal pressures impacting their relationship.
The Internal Conflicts: Self-Discovery and Redefining Value
Beyond the external conflict, the story explores significant internal conflicts within both Greg and Lemon Brown.
Greg's Internal Struggle: Pride vs. Understanding
Greg grapples with his internal conflict of pride and resentment towards his father. His initial attitude is one of disdain and dismissal, fueled by his desire for a more financially stable life. However, through his encounter with Lemon Brown, Greg experiences a shift in perspective. He begins to understand the intangible value of things like memories, family, and personal integrity—values his father holds dear. This internal shift is crucial to the story's resolution.
Lemon Brown's Internal Struggle: Loss and Acceptance
Lemon Brown, a seemingly impoverished and homeless man, faces his internal conflict of coming to terms with loss. He has lost his son, his home, and his career. Yet, his "treasures" represent his acceptance of these losses and the preservation of his memories and identity. His story acts as a crucial mirror reflecting Greg's own internal conflict—allowing him to better understand his own preconceptions and the need for acceptance.
The Resolution: A Bridge of Understanding
The resolution of the story lies not in a dramatic confrontation but in a subtle shift in perspective. Through Lemon Brown's story and his treasures, Greg gains a new appreciation for his father and for the intangible values that define a meaningful life. The external conflict isn't fully resolved—the father-son relationship still needs work—but the groundwork for a better understanding has been laid. The story's end suggests a potential reconciliation built on a foundation of shared experience and mutual respect.
In conclusion, "The Treasure of Lemon Brown" presents a multifaceted conflict that encompasses external tension between father and son, complicated by generational differences and societal pressures. However, the true heart of the conflict lies in the internal struggles of both characters, forcing them to confront their own preconceived notions about value, success, and the importance of family connections. It’s a conflict that leaves a lasting impact, provoking reflection on the deeper meaning of treasure and the complexities of human relationships.
