Pot of Gold

In the short story Pot of Gold by Cheryl Albury she explores the dynamics of friendship, family and the limits one will go to in the name of love . In the story A man by the name of Jacob is on the verge of freedom. He reminisces about his prior years in prison, his family and his best friend and former jail mate Cyril. Jacob and his group of friends, including Cyril would spend their Saturday nights at “endurance café” drinking rum and sharing jokes. One night, Cyril proposed an offer to Jacob at the café. He insured that neither of them was intoxicated so that they can make a clear decision. Jacob was overwhelmed and could not respond to the proposal. He returned home as a new man. He emotionally grasped his family and became more involved. About a month later, Jacob received disturbing news. He had lost his job. Jacob thoroughly considered how his life would be unemployed. He was aware of his role as the breadwinner of the family. Thus, he is motivated by his desire to provide for his family. Interestingly, the planning off the robbery bonded Cyril and Jacob. As they tirelessly work together, ensuring the robbery is a success, they find themselves falling. In Cyril’s case he loses his girlfriend and children. A public announcement was broadcasted throughout the entire island. A huge amount of money was stolen from the bank. There were several foreign suspects, but no one ever suspected the robbers would be locals, Jacob and Cyril. After 6 months, Cyril’s girlfriend suspected that he was linked to the robbery due to arguments between the two. She called the police and reported her boyfriend as being suspicious of the ultimate crime. The police arrived to Jacob’s home and arrested him. They had obtained Cyril’s written confession. Fifteen years later, Jacob was freed. His wife, Zelda escorted him home. Jacob was welcomed home with love from family members and friends. The next morning, Jacob got dressed and went to the property where he and his friend buried the money. He noticed that a store was built directly over his hidden treasure. His dreams were immediately crushed. He returned to his poverty stricken lifestyle that he so hardly tried to escape.