Jonah's Gourd Vine vividly portrays the life of John Pearson, a character inspired by Zora Neale Hurston’s own parents. The novel traces John's journey from a destitute sharecropper in Alabama to a prominent figure in the Florida Baptist Convention. Despite achieving success, John's story is marred by his personal flaws, leading to a dramatic downfall and eventual redemption.

Life on the Sharecropping Farm

The tale begins on a sharecropping farm by the Songahatchee River in Alabama, years after emancipation. Amy and Ned Crittenden, along with their three sons—including Amy’s eldest, John—live under harsh conditions typical for Southern black sharecroppers: poverty-stricken, in perpetual debt, and lacking adequate food and clothing. Family life is tense, exacerbated by Ned's drinking problem and his resentment towards John's mixed heritage. At sixteen, John retaliates against Ned's abusive behavior toward Amy, setting the stage for his departure.

New Beginnings at Judge Pearson's Plantation

John's fortunes change when he gains employment at Judge Alf Pearson's plantation, a place brimming with unspoken connections, as Judge Alf is revealed to be his father. Here, John assumes significant responsibilities and is provided with an opportunity for education. However, his time at the plantation is also marked by his entanglements with various women.

Marriage and Complications

John's heart is captured by the spirited Lucy Potts, and they eventually marry, despite John's continued infidelities. His extramarital activities lead to a confrontation with Lucy’s brother, Bud, who seizes their wedding gift bed during John's absence. As a result, John is forced to leave after a violent altercation with Bud leaves him nearly dead, prompting John's flight to avoid legal repercussions.

Prosperity and Temptation in Eatonville

John and his family relocate to Eatonville, Florida, where John's life flourishes under Lucy's guidance. He becomes a thriving carpenter, property owner, and the respected pastor of Zion Hope Baptist Church, along with being the influential moderator of the Florida Baptist Convention. However, John's persistent infidelity casts a long shadow over his achievements, threatening his stability within the church. Lucy stands by him as a steadfast ally until her untimely death, brought on by health issues exacerbated by John's betrayals and her own relentless responsibilities.

Downfall with Hattie Tyson

Lucy's passing marks the beginning of John's decline. He quickly marries Hattie Tyson, whose self-absorbed nature dismantles the legacy John and Lucy built. John loses his family, congregation, and sense of self-worth. Feeling misunderstood, he abandons his ministry and leaves Eatonville, seeking solace and a fresh start elsewhere.

A New Chapter in Plant City

In Plant City, John's life takes a turn for the better with the support of his third wife, Sally Lovelace, who helps him rebuild his dignity and regain prosperity. He becomes the pastor of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, a position that exceeds his previous pastoral role. Despite a period of serenity, old habits die hard; a lapse in judgment during a trip to Sanford leads to his untimely demise. Struck by a train while driving back to Sally, John's death stirs widespread lamentation, and he is memorialized for the positive impact he had during his life.