Freedom

Freedom (mental, emotional, spiritual and physical) is a theme woven through each character's life. Beginning in the eighteenth century with Muhammad Bilal's capture in Africa and subsequent enslavement, those belonging to the Lewis family are concerned with being free. For Bilal, freedom is a complicated matter. Although the young boy is aware of his enslavement even before reaching the U.S., his determination to stay alive represents an unusual kind of freedom. Muhammad's vow to survive no matter what represents the character's commitment to remaining free in his mind and in his spirit.

With the introduction of the slaves at Live Oaks plantation, freedom takes on another meaning altogether. Lizzy, Moses and the others are the human property of Old Master Lewis. As such, they could only dream of freedom in the physical sense. Captivity aside, however, the characters still maintain a kind of freedom that is beyond...