The quest to bury Addie Bundren in her hometown seemed simple. The family made the journey, but hardship and hindrance marred its every step. The most significant conflict on the trip was that between Darl and Jewel, two brothers divided by a common goal: putting their mother to rest.

On page 22 Cora says "I always said Darl was different from those others. He was the only one that had his mother's nature, had any natural affection." She goes on to tell how Darl begged Jewel and Anse not to make him leave her so close to her death. Even so, Jewel was still her favorite. Jewel is Addie's beloved child because he is not Anse's son; he is her secret and her escape and has been from the moment he was born.

Darl feels like an unwanted son, while Jewel takes his mother's love for granted. The jealousy...