“Theme Interpretation Through the Characters in ‘The Gilded

“The Gilded Six-Bits” is a short story on survival of love in a black family living in a rural area. Although Missie May and Joe are somewhat isolated from others, they are indeed happy with their lives. The love between them is all they need to live a happy and wealthy life. One day, though, their love is tested when Joe walks in on Missie May and a “wealthy” black businessman, Otis D. Slemmons. Thus, …

…goes beyond the words written on the pages. It proves that individual values are different for everyone and for many, love brings more happiness than wealth can ever bring. Before this incident with Missie May, Joe and his wife were young “kids” trying to build a marriage. After they experienced this though, they became full adults. They truly grew up. This story shows how the power of love can survive anything, for it is immortal.