The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky

by Stephen Crane

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Characters

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Much has already been discussed regarding the three main characters in this Western drama with dark undertones, so a brief overview will suffice here. "The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky" is, among other intriguing aspects, a story about new beginnings. The marshal is embarking on a drastically different lifestyle, both physically and mentally (marriage), in a community where his and his bride's social acceptance might be uncertain, and this is a genuine concern. Although he appears to have neutralized the town's troublemaker (or peace disturber) as a recurring threat or nuisance, the demanding responsibilities of a law enforcer in a tough environment persist. Considering all the changes in his life, he can be seen as a transformed man.

Regarding his reticent bride, she has taken an even more significant plunge into the unknown. A whirlwind romance with a still somewhat unfamiliar suitor and a move to a frontier town of uncertain character, much smaller than San Antonio, intimidate her and put her in a vulnerable position. Though this is a new chapter for her as well, the timid woman retreats by withdrawing into the only place she feels secure: her private thoughts.

As for Scratchy Wilson, starting anew after his relationship with Potter ends, his fate—at least as far as this story is concerned—remains uncertain and open to various interpretations once he leaves Potter and begins walking away over "the heavy sand."

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