Symbols are often objects, but not every object in a story is symbolic. Sometimes a dead bird on your doorstep is just a sign that your cat was left outside all day. Sometimes a dove’s feather that lands neatly in a character’s hand is just a detail in the story. Objects that become symbols are often introduced during an important event in the story and then appear later, either as part of another event or in the main character’s thoughts.
Can you recall any objects that seemed symbolic as you read the first half of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry? Remember everything you can about the events listed. What part of each scene seemed particularly important? Did the characters seem to feel strongly about any objects or other details? Click each event to compare your thoughts with sample answers.
The dirty, worn-out school book that Little Man refused to accept, and its offensive chart, could be a symbol. What might the textbook represent?
The book, which was given to Little Man’s school after students at the county’s better funded white school were done with it, could represent the injustice facing Cassie, her family, and other African Americans in the area. In refusing to accept the book, Little Man was refusing to accept the unfairness it represented.
The mud hole that takes so much effort to create—and that disables the white children’s school bus—means more to the Logan children than an ordinary prank. What might the hole represent?
The hole could symbolize the children’s resistance to injustice—and also the bravery and determination required to defend themselves and to stand up for what’s right. It could also symbolize the children’s desire for revenge.
Stacey gets a brand-new wool jacket from Uncle Hammer. The jacket is warm and even though it is a tad big, it is the nicest jacket any of the kids have ever seen. What does the coat represent?
The jacket could represent manhood and the respect that comes with it. (Stacey is a growing young man who will soon have more responsibilities.) Or it could represent the money and freedom that Uncle Hammer has been able to access up North.
The Logan children are impressed and amazed by Uncle Hammer’s fancy Packard. What might the car symbolize?
The Packard places Uncle Hammer on the same level as Mr. Granger—at least in terms of the car he can afford to buy. The car could symbolize the sense of equality that Uncle Hammer feels because of the freedom he enjoys in the North where there are no Jim Crow laws. It could also symbolize the freedom to escape from the South and find an easier place to live.
