The Theme of Suffering and Redemption

The novel explores how suffering can lead to redemption, but also how it can be meaningless, as seen in the fates of Coffey, Delacroix, and Paul.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Coffey's Suffering

The Healer's Pain Absorbing Others' Pain Coffey feels the pain of everyone around him. He weeps constantly. His gift is a burden. The Injustice Coffey is innocent but condemned. He accepts his fate because he is tired of suffering. His death is a release. The Question of Redemption Coffey's execution is not redemptive; it is a tragedy. The novel questions whether any suffering can be redeemed.

Delacroix's Brief Redemption

A Moment of Grace The Mouse as Salvation Delacroix finds meaning in caring for Mr. Jingles. The mouse gives him a reason to live, even as he awaits death. The Botched Execution Delacroix's death is horrific and meaningless. His redemption is cut short by Percy's cruelty. The Unanswered Prayer Delacroix prays to the Virgin Mary. His death is not peaceful. The novel suggests that redemption is not guaranteed.

Paul's Long Suffering

The Survivor's Curse Living Too Long Paul outlives everyone he loves. His long life is a punishment. He suffers from memory and guilt. Writing as Redemption Paul writes his story to make sense of his suffering. The act of writing is a form of atonement. The Unanswered Question Paul still wonders why Coffey saved him but not Janice. There is no answer. Suffering remains a mystery.

Throughout the novel

August-October 1932

1932 to present