Study Questions
Characterize John's relationship with Gabriel.
Florence's mother taught her the right way to pray. Florence, Gabriel, and Elizabeth each have extended "Prayers" in Part Two. Have they learned how to pray?
Compare John's feelings about white people to those of Gabriel and those of Richard.
What are some of the main parallels to the Old and New Testaments to be found in the novel? How do they enhance one's understanding of the story and its characters?
How does Baldwin integrate Biblical language and the lyrics of traditional black spirituals into his text? What is the effect of this technique?
How would you describe the book? As a commentary on religious conversion? As an analysis of a father-son conflict? Or as an indictment of a racist society? Give your reasons for characterizing the novel in this way.
