Segregation

Segregation is an important concept to Slim. Throughout the book, he mentions the divide between blacks and whites in society. Slim has high aspirations to be powerful, no matter what. He has all of the best characteristics for achieving something great, including a genius I.Q., good looks and an incredible drive and determination to succeed.

Rather than channel these qualities into a lifestyle that benefits society and stays within legal restraints, Slim chooses to actively pursue a life of pimping and is frequently in and out of jail throughout his life. One reason you could say he chooses this lifestyle is the fact there are few professions for black men to earn a lot of money in the 1920's and 30's. At one point, Slim remarks he does not want to be a porter, working for white men. He enjoys buying a new car every year and...