She is an embarrassment to Macon Dead, whose
artificial lifestyle is contrasts with Pilate's. However, Pilate is
welcoming and open to Milkman and Guitar, and her love for Milkman goes
back to his childhood when Pilate helped his mother conceive him, and
protected him from being aborted. Although Milkman feels no real love for
his own family or for Hagar, Pilate is the force that helps him open his
heart.
Another influence on Milkman's conscience comes from his long-time
friend named "Guitar," who is angry and serious about retribution. Guitar
questions him on his selfish behavior and shallow values and tells him,
"Now you know something about yourself you didn't know before; who you are
and what you are.... If things ever got tough you'd melt. You're not a
serious person, Milkman" (104). The legends of Milkman's heritage become
real to him, and finally, firmly establish his values. The praise...
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