Jefferson faces his death with dignity, which he learns in part from his interact with Grant. Critic Beavers notes, "Though Jefferson's death is certain, Grant's task -- which becomes Jefferson's legacy -- is to impart some of himself, to demonstrate to Jefferson a way to improvise upon a negative situation till he discovers dignity and purpose" (Beavers 31). Each man learns something valuable from the other, and that is another major point of the novel. Gaines is showing the reader they can learn from anyone, no matter how "insignificant" they may seem. Everyone has a lesson and everyone can be a pupil, no matter who they are or what they do in life.

The theme of the novel is quite clear. Gaines' purpose in writing this novel is to illustrate how each person is valuable as a human being. Those with the most courage inspire others to live their lives...
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