The state constitution said the one doing the deed would have their right hand cut off, would be hanged in the usual manner, have their head severed from their body and divided in four quarters, and set in the most public place in the county where the act was committed. But some days it still felt worth killing Anne-May anyway.”
-- Jemma (3 )

Importance: Jemma recites this as the penalty for a slave who murders a white person. The law is clearly an effort to make the punishment as terrible as possible to dissuade slaves from considering taking revenge on cruel masters and overseers. Jemma's feeling that it might be worth it is a sign of how cruel Anne-May is.

Why should we die without living life like other folks? I want to have things to look forward like Aunt Tandy Rose said.”
-- Jemma (6 )

Importance: Jemma is making the point to Patience that she wants to...