Maxwell (Max) Reddick

Maxwell (Max) Reddick is a central character, exemplifying the struggle of a black novelist and journalist in his forties. His life is marked by a relentless battle against societal prejudices that hinder the progress of black individuals in American life and letters. After serving in the Army during World War II, Max moves to Harlem, where he endures poverty while crafting his first novel. Despite the promises of help from many liberals, he is met with unfulfilled offers. His journey takes him to Europe, where the initial perception of reduced racism gives way to a stark realization of its persistence, especially after marrying a Dutch woman, Margrit.

Max’s journey is deeply introspective, revealing his acute awareness of history and the personal toll of his successes, which have inadvertently been utilized by racists to lead him away from his essence. His character arc is marked by a poignant awareness of his racial and historical identity, enforced by his cynical subconscious, Saminone, and mentor, Harry Ames. Despite his achievements as a novelist, journalist, and speechwriter, Max sees his life culminating in destruction, yet he chooses a path true to himself, striking a blow against the enemies of his black identity.

By marrying Margrit, Max attempts to make a statement against racism. Initially, he worries that Margrit is a "bleached" substitute for his former love, Lillian, a middle-class black woman who sought stability and security rather than the artist's life Max pursued. Ironically, racial pressures strain his marriage to Margrit more than her own attitudes, as she loves him regardless of race. Ultimately, as he approaches his death, Max realizes his love for Margrit is genuine.

Max’s friendship with Harry Ames is both supportive and competitive, with Harry serving as a literary mentor. Harry instructs Max on the significance of rebellion in the identity of a black writer within racist America, a lesson Max ultimately embodies in his choice of death. Max’s cry of “I am” symbolizes his affirmation of existence and confrontation with the societal structures that oppress him, drawing parallels to the protagonists of Richard Wright and Ralph Ellison.

Tragically, Max learns of the King Alfred Plan, a conspiracy to control black Americans, and discovers his terminal cancer. Despite these challenges, he continues to fight for justice, passing vital information to Minister Q. before his demise at the hands of CIA agents, exemplified by his death at the hands of Roger Wilkinson. His story is a narrative of resistance, self-discovery, and ultimate sacrifice.

Harry Ames

Harry Ames, modeled on Richard Wright, is an expatriate black novelist who played a pioneering role in black literature. A former member of the Communist Party, Harry leaves it in the 1940s to focus on his writing. His friendship with Max Reddick is underscored by both camaraderie and rivalry. A fellowship opportunity in Athens, made impossible by the discovery of his interracial marriage, underscores the racial barriers he faces. Disillusioned by the unfulfilled promises of whites, he retreats to Europe, where he distances himself from his roots.

In Europe, Harry's creative energies shift towards Africa and politics. He uncovers an international plot, the Alliance Blanc, aimed at exploiting African nations and thwarting their unity. The U.S.'s contribution, the King Alfred Plan, involves plans to detain black Americans. Harry entrusts Michelle, his lover, with a copy of this plan to deliver to Max. Shortly after this, Harry is assassinated, leaving his warning to Max as his final act of defiance against the oppressive forces he has fought against.

Margrit Westoever (Maggie) Reddick

Margrit Westoever (Maggie) Reddick, a Dutch woman, is the wife of Max...