Grant Wiggins and Jefferson are the novel’s dual protagonists. Their individual survivals depend on their mutual support. Although it is Jefferson’s story, it is narrated by Grant, with the exception of Chapter 29, in which Jefferson is finally able to tell his story in his own voice, through his diary. […]
Read more Character Analysis Grant Wiggins and JeffersonSummary and Analysis Chapter 31
Summary To show their respect for Jefferson, the people of the quarter have agreed to refrain from working on the day of his execution. While Grant waits for word from the courthouse, he has his students get down on their knees and pray silently. Finally, Paul arrives to tell Grant […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 31Summary and Analysis Chapter 30
Summary The portable electric chair (“Gruesome Gerty”) is brought to town and townspeople react to its presence. Final preparations are made for Jefferson’s execution. Analysis This chapter echoes the opening paradox of being there and not being there. Anticipation of Jefferson’s imminent execution is palpable, but Jefferson is not a […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 30Summary and Analysis Chapter 29
Summary In his diary, Jefferson records his thoughts and feelings as he awaits his impending execution. Analysis Throughout history, letters and diaries have been important media for recording social and political history. Written primarily to record a writer’s personal feelings, activities, reflections, and observations, these documents generally demonstrate a candid […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 29Summary and Analysis Chapter 28
Summary On his next visit with Jefferson, Grant persuades him to talk to Rev. Ambrose. They discuss prayer and dying. Jefferson offers Grant a sweet potato. Analysis This chapter is one of the most powerful in the book as Jefferson accepts his human condition and Grant has his eyes opened […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 28Summary and Analysis Chapter 27
Summary It is Sunday, and Grant is in his room, grading papers and listening to the music coming from the church. As he works, he hears Tante Lou and her friends returning from church. Minutes later, Tante Lou knocks on his door and tells him that Rev. Ambrose wants to […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 27Summary and Analysis Chapters 24-26
Summary After stopping by the drugstore to pick up the notebook and pencil that he promised Jefferson, Grant meets Miss Emma, Tante Lou, and Rev. Ambrose in front of the courthouse. In Paul’s absence, they are searched and escorted to the dayroom by the chief deputy. As soon as Jefferson […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 24-26Summary and Analysis Chapters 22-23
Summary On Friday, Grant visits Jefferson for the first time since the date for his execution had been set. Although Paul offers to stay nearby, warning him that things might be different now, Grant assures him that he will be fine. Upon meeting with Jefferson, he finds him to be […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 22-23Summary and Analysis Chapters 20-21
Summary It is late February, and Grant is at school grading papers during recess when Mr. Farrell Jarreau comes to tell him that the date has been set for Jefferson’s execution and that Grant and Rev. Ambrose have been summoned to Henri Pichot’s mansion. Leaving Irene in charge, Grant heads […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapters 20-21Summary and Analysis Chapter 19
Summary Despite the cold, rainy weather, the people in the quarter have gathered at the plantation church/school for the annual Christmas program. Aware that this year’s program is dedicated to Jefferson, many arrive early, and Grant notes that even those who have never before attended a Christmas or graduation program […]
Read more Summary and Analysis Chapter 19