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1. In Chapter 1, why did Hiram avoid a stone bridge?

Hiram avoided a stone bridge. It was stained with the remembrance of the mothers, uncles, and cousins sent to Natchez. Slaves that were taken to be sold would be taken across that bridge.

2. What does Hiram see in Chapter 1 when he is driving across a stone bridge?

Hiram is driving Maynard and a prostitute across a stone bridge. Suddenly he sees his mother dressed in blue. She was patting juba on the bridge with an earthen jar on her head. No matter how high her knees went as she danced, the jar stayed on top of her head. Hiram is the only one who sees her.

3. In Chapter 1, what happens to Hiram and Maynard when the bridge breaks and they fall into the river?

When the bridge breaks Maynard thrashes in the water and calls for help because he cannot swim. Hiram has visions of his past life and he sees people he has known. There is a blue light as he remembers and it brings him peace. He sees Maynard disappear. Then he sees his mother bend down before a boy. She hands the boy a shell necklace. Then the boy walks over to Hiram and gives him the necklace.

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