Conduction

Conduction symbolizes the power of personal and communal history as a foundation of resistance. In the novel, several of the African-American characters can use a supernatural power called Conduction to travel rapidly. The power is triggered by personal and communal memories, which help to strengthen the large-scale resistance against slavery.

Hiram’s Memory

Hiram’s exceptional memory symbolizes the importance of recalling the past in order to improve the present and future. Hiram has a nearly perfect memory, which aids his Conduction abilities. Moreover, Conduction helps him recalls various lost memories regarding his mother. The novel consistently emphasizes the necessity of personal and historical memory in informing social progress.

Slavery

Slavery symbolizes societal evil, which must be vigorously resisted in order to fight for justice and harmony. The novel’s central characters utilize many strategies for rescuing slaves and resisting slavery in general. Even the seemingly...