Chapter 22: Dawn Summary and Analysis

Slim is almost 43 years old and is released from jail. He questions whether he will ever be comfortable in his own black skin upon his release. He has no one in the world except for his Mama. He goes to visit her immediately and she lives another six months, during which time Slim never leaves her side. On her deathbed, she asks for Slim's forgiveness.

The complicated relationship between Slim and Mama comes to a close with her death. Fortunately, he is granted early release from prison due to studying the legal books and he is given this extra time to spend with Mama. He will stop pimping after this and give up drugs. He will start a new life with a new attitude and try to make a positive contribution . Without this event and his commitment to a...