Saturday, December 18, 2010

What is a description of Mr. Morrison, and why does Papa bring him to stay with the familiy in Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor?

Mr. Morrison is a very muscular, strong, "giant" of a man with whom Papa has worked on the railroad. Since he has lost his job, Papa has asked him to accompany him home because he needs another man to protect his family in what appears to be brewing racial troubles.


Interestingly, the character of Mr. Morrison ties in with the title of Mildred Taylor's novel; for when Mama is introduced to him in Chapter 2, she studies him momentarily, then welcomes him to her home. 



"Miz Logan," said Mr. Morrison in a deep, quiet voice like the roll of low thunder, "I think you oughta know I got fired off my job. Got in a fight with some men...beat 'em up pretty bad."



Also, when he explains to Mama that he did not start the fight and the others--white men--were not fired, this situation foreshadows what actions are to come in Taylor's narrative. Having heard Mr. Morrison's explanation, Mama tells him that her family is glad to have him, "especially now." Further, as the plot develops, the taciturn, but mighty Mr. Morrison proves to be a strong ally and solid friend to the Logans.

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