The Baptism of Fire

The Baptism of Fire is an important element in the Pentecostal religion and this saying makes many appearances at the revival meetings Ginny and her father attend. During the first revival Ginny attends, the preacher announces that "You've got to fight fire with fire. Just like you caseharden a nail to make it stronger, or fire a pot in the fiery furnace to make it last. It takes the second baptism to see you through" (p. 6). The baptism of fire is also seen as symbolism for Ginny's relationship with Tom - at every major event in their lives together, there is an image of fire present. First, when the couple meets, after a narrow escape from the bull, it begins to rain. Ginny and Tom run full speed to the nearest tree, soaked through with rain. They watch with a mixture of excitement and fear...