The Fire in the Flint · Chapter
Chapter XXII explained
Kenneth Harper, exhausted and grieving over his brother's lynching, is called to treat Mary Ewing.
What happens
Kenneth Harper, exhausted and grieving over his brother's lynching, is called to treat Mary Ewing. While alone with her, he is tempted to let her die as an act of revenge against the white race, but ultimately saves her. Mrs. Ewing reveals that her husband has gone to Atlanta to seek the Governor's protection for Kenneth, as the Ku Klux Klan is after him. Kenneth, defiant, leaves the house, unaware that he is being watched.
Themes in this chapter
Racial Injustice and Oppression
Kenneth's internal monologue reveals the deep-seated anger and desire for revenge against the white race, stemming from the lynching of his brother and systemic racism.
Violence and Terror
The Klan's threats against Kenneth and Roy Ewing, and the mob waiting outside, highlight the ever-present danger of racial violence.
Idealism vs. Reality
Kenneth's initial optimism about his practice is shattered by the reality of racial hatred and the constant threat of violence.
Characters to notice
- Kenneth Harper
Struggles with a dark temptation to let Mary Ewing die, but ultimately saves her. Learns of the Klan's threats and vows to fight.
- Mary Ewing
Critically ill, nearly dies due to Kenneth's momentary lapse, but is saved.
- Mrs. Ewing
Anxiously watches over her daughter, reveals the Klan's threats and her husband's mission to see the Governor.
- Roy Ewing
Mentioned as having gone to Atlanta to warn Kenneth and seek the Governor's protection.
- Bob Harper
Kenneth imagines Bob smiling in approval of his revenge fantasy.
Key passages
“He felt that Bob, whatever he was, was smiling even now in approval of his actions.”
Kenneth imagined his deceased brother Bob would approve of his vengeful thoughts.
Shows Kenneth's psychological state and his bond with his brother.
“My God! Just think I was about to let her die! May the Lord forgive me!”
Kenneth is horrified by his own near-fatal lapse and prays for forgiveness.
Highlights his moral struggle and ultimate redemption.
“B'cause the Ku Kluxers are after you!”
Mrs. Ewing reveals that the Klan is targeting Kenneth.
Central to the plot's tension and the threat against Kenneth.