What does Maniac become aware of in his altercation with Old Ragpicker?

Although Maniac is seemingly unaware of the complexity of racism and its existence in Two Mills, he soon understands. When Ragpicker approaches him on the streets and tells him to leave, Maniac begins to realize racism’s powerful hold on Two Mills. Although troubled by the old man’s words, Maniac continues to live with the Beales until a racial slur motivates him to leave.