Food

Food often symbolizes a source of comfort for the Garfields and literally is "comfort food" in many instances. Often, Maybelle cooks and prepares meals during momentous occasions and sad ones (e.g., family gatherings and funerals). Ailey often eats when she is upset (e.g., after her father's death, uncomfortable in North Carolina). There are many instances in the novel that feature details about food that may seem trivial, but in fact are essential parts of the story. As a symbol, food demonstrates one of the ways the characters seek comfort alone or with family in vulnerable moments because they must be wary in public due to racism.

The City

The City symbolizes a lifestyle contrary to that in which the Garfields are most at ease. Lydia and Maybelle experience their most distressing moments when they are in The City, where families are less closely bound...