Podcast
Questions and Answers
How does Guitar repeatedly describe Hagar?
How does Guitar repeatedly describe Hagar?
pretty little black girl
What did Guitar's mom do after her husband died?
What did Guitar's mom do after her husband died?
she ran away
What do Pilate and Reba try to do to love Hagar?
What do Pilate and Reba try to do to love Hagar?
they bring different objects for her
Why does Hagar think Milkman doesn't like her?
Why does Hagar think Milkman doesn't like her?
How much is Reba's diamond actually worth?
How much is Reba's diamond actually worth?
How much money does Reba trade for the diamond originally, and how much money in total does Hagar have at the end?
How much money does Reba trade for the diamond originally, and how much money in total does Hagar have at the end?
What happens in one of the stores' fitting rooms?
What happens in one of the stores' fitting rooms?
Why does Marcelline tell Hagar to come back later?
Why does Marcelline tell Hagar to come back later?
What happens to Hagar and her clothes on the walk home?
What happens to Hagar and her clothes on the walk home?
How does Hagar tell by Reba and Pilate's reaction that she doesn't look good?
How does Hagar tell by Reba and Pilate's reaction that she doesn't look good?
What happens between Macon and Ruth?
What happens between Macon and Ruth?
What is the last thing Pilate says at the funeral?
What is the last thing Pilate says at the funeral?
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Study Notes
Hagar's Character and Relationships
- Guitar describes Hagar as a "pretty little black girl" while comforting her, highlighting his complex feelings and their relationship dynamics.
- Hagar feels unattractive to Milkman, believing he dislikes her appearance, showcasing her insecurities and the impact of his indifference.
Family Dynamics and Background
- Guitar’s mother fled following her husband's death, indicating themes of loss and abandonment.
- Pilate and Reba attempt to nurture Hagar’s spirit by offering her various objects, demonstrating their care and desire to support her emotionally.
Economic Aspects and Materialism
- Reba's diamond is valued at $2000, symbolizing wealth but also the objectification of relationships.
- Hagar trades $30 for the diamond, possessing a total of $200.75 by the end, highlighting her navigation of financial independence.
Struggles and Self-Image
- In a store fitting room, Hagar struggles to fit into an overly small skirt, reflecting her desire to change her appearance and fit societal standards.
- During her walk home, Hagar's new purchases become dirty in the rain, which serves as a metaphor for her life's hardships and challenges.
Interpersonal Conflicts
- Marcelline urges Hagar to return later to avoid conflict, illustrating the tensions and complexities in their social circles.
- Hagar discerns from Reba and Pilate's eyes that she does not appear well, tapping into non-verbal communication to assess her situation.
Emotional Climax and Conclusions
- A pivotal scene occurs between Macon and Ruth when she silently enters his office, compelling him to give her money for Hagar's funeral, indicating their strained relationship and unresolved issues.
- Pilate's final words at the funeral, "And she was loved!", underscore themes of love and loss amidst tragedy.
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