Question

In novels, authors cannot rely on images to create mood, rather they rely on words and phrases. Go back and re-read the ending of Chapter 9 (from mid p. 71 on). How does Ernest Gaines rely on diction to capture the essence Jefferson's cell? What about the feelings of his visitors? Why do you think his nannan keeps talking about the food? Why would she keep describing it?

Answer 1

Grant enters the house to find Miss Emma in her chair, coughing unconvincingly. Grant thinks she is feigning illness because she and his aunt expect him to go to the jail alone from now on. Grant is angry and tells them he feels humiliated performing the duties they ask of him.