People have noted that the "issue of capital punishment has been overshadowed by a focus on highlighting and emphasizing the positive aspects of the traditional Black community." Jefferson emerges as the most compelling figure in the story by deciding not to play the victim. Miss Emma assists Jefferson by making sure he realizes that "he's not a hog, he's a man," as she explains to Mr. Henri while seeking his assistance to obtain the sheriff's permission for Grant to visit Jefferson in jail. Miss Emma is getting the community ready to demonstrate their support for Jefferson, operating within the current system.