The Power of Parental Influence

Ray's character and outlook on the world, as well as his relationships with other inmates, demonstrates the powerful impact of parental influence and how one is raised. Ray's personal values of compassion, kindness, and forgiveness were all instilled in him by his mother. It was also his mother who taught him to treat others well regardless of how they treat him, to trust authority, to be honest, and to take responsibility for his actions. Throughout the book, Ray identifies himself as "his mother's son" and refers to how he was raised when writing about his actions and choices, thus illustrating how his mother's teachings and philosophies have permeated all aspects of his life, character, and identity.

The power and impact of parental influence is particularly highlighted when Ray becomes friends with Henry and realizes that he is the notorious Henry Hays, a KKK member...