In Flannery O’Connor’s short story “Everything That Rises Must Converge,” Julian's desire to convey sympathy to the African American man on the bus is rooted in his complex feelings about race, identity, and his own societal conditioning. Julian, who views himself as liberal and open-minded, wrestles with the ingrained prejudices of his upbringing.
His overt attempts to demonstrate sympathy to the African American man can be seen as an effort to distance himself from his mother's outdated views on race, and to assert his own sense of moral superiority. However, this act is also tinged with condescension, as he seeks validation for his beliefs rather than genuine connection. Ultimately, Julian’s motivation is reflective of his internal conflict and desire to navigate a world that is changing, yet still burdened by the weight of historical and social injustices.
The interaction highlights themes of racial tension, personal identity, and the often misguided nature of attempts to convey sympathy when they are not rooted in true understanding or respect. Julian’s complexity as a character demonstrates the difficulties of reconciliation in a society grappling with issues of race, and his actions provoke questions about the authenticity of sympathy and the nuances of human interactions across racial lines.
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