Further insight into the creation of this novel reveals that Jones’ focus is more on the relationships of the characters rather than the historical accuracy. Jones came up with the story in his head …show more content…
Henry is a man that was born into the institution of slavery and was never able to escape. Despite the fact that he believes that he is making a difference in the world by not being like the other masters, Henry is not able to create a long-lasting legacy. Moses, wanting to follow his master’s footsteps and continue his legacy, pursues the role of his master by establishing a relationship with Henry’s widow. Because Moses has been the overseer for most of his life, he was inexperienced in pursuing his goal outside of his “known world”. This ultimately results in his failure, causing him to run away and retreat into what he is most familiar with, work and nature. By writing about Henry and Moses’ struggle with race and wealth in the Antebellum South, Jones is able to propose that modern America still is immersed in its “known world” which can lead a potential