The Surly Guest

"The Surly Guest" is a thought-provoking piece by James Baldwin that delves into the complexities of race, identity, and belonging in America. The narrative presents the conflicting emotions and experiences of its characters as they navigate societal expectations and personal struggles. Baldwin's powerful prose exposes the deep-seated tensions that arise from prejudice and alienation, all while urging readers to confront the uncomfortable truths of their own realities. The work reflects Baldwin's keen insight into human nature and the relentless search for acceptance and understanding in a divided world.

• Short story

								
One day John Randolph, of Roanoke, [Footnote: Ro'a noke.] set out on
horseback to ride to a town that was many miles from his home. The
road was strange to him, and he traveled very slowly.

When night came on he stopped at a pleasant roadside inn and asked for
lodging. The innkeeper welcomed him kindly. He had often heard of the
great John Randolph, and therefore he did all that he could to
entertain him well.

A fine supper was prepared, and the innkeeper himself waited upon his
guest. John Randolph ate in silence. The innkeeper spoke of the
weather, of the roads, of the crops, of politics. But his surly guest
said scarcely a word.

In the morning a good breakfast was served, and then Mr. Randolph made
ready to start on his journey. He called for his bill and paid it. His
horse was led to the door, and a servant helped him to mount it.

As he was starting away, the friendly innkeeper said, "Which way will
you travel, Mr. Randolph?"

Mr. Randolph looked at him in no gentle way, and answered, "Sir!"

"I only asked which way you intend to travel," said the man.

"Oh! I have I paid you my bill?"

"Yes, sir."

"Do I owe you anything more?"

"No, sir."

"Then, I intend to travel the way I wish to go--do you understand?"

He turned his horse and rode away. He had not gone farther than to the
end of the innkeeper's field, when to his surprise he found that the
road forked. He did not know whether he should take the right-hand
fork or the left-hand.

He paused for a while. There was no signboard to help him. He looked
back and saw the innkeeper still standing by the door. He called to
him:--"My friend, which of these roads shall I travel to go to
Lynchburg?"

"Mr. Randolph," answered the innkeeper, "you have paid your bill and
don't owe me a cent. Travel the way you wish to go. Good-by!"

As bad luck would have it, Mr. Randolph took the wrong road. He went
far out of his way and lost much time, all on account of his surliness.

III

John Randolph, of Roanoke, lived in Virginia one hundred years ago.
He was famous as a lawyer and statesman. He was a member of Congress
for many years, and was noted for his odd manners and strong self-
will.
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