# II explained — The Walls of Jericho

> Chapter companion for The Walls of Jericho by Rudolph Fisher.

## What happens

In this chapter, the reader is introduced to Patmore, the proprietor of a pool parlor, and his interaction with Shine and Bubber. Shine's defiance and independence are highlighted as he brings his own liquor, challenging Patmore's authority. The chapter then delves into Shine's past, revealing his childhood in an orphanage where he stood up to the superintendent, and his early adulthood as a shoe-shiner, where he earned the nickname 'Shine'. The narrative also depicts Shine's current work as a piano mover, showcasing his physical strength and the dangers of his job.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Self-Deception

Shine's past as Joshua Jones and his transformation into 'Shine' highlight the construction of identity and the masks one wears.

### Resilience and Survival

Shine's defiance in the orphanage and his physical endurance in piano moving demonstrate his resilience in the face of adversity.

### Power and Control

The power struggle between Shine and Patmore, and the superintendent's authority in the orphanage, illustrate themes of control and resistance.

## Character check-ins

### Pat

Proprietor of the pool parlor, attempts to assert authority but backs down from Shine's challenge.

### Bubber Brown

Engages in banter with Patmore and is involved in a rivalry with Long-Boy.

### Jinx Jenkins

Assists Shine in moving a piano, part of the piano-moving crew.

### Joshua Jones

Shine's original name, used in flashbacks to his orphanage and shoe-shining days.

## Key lines

> This ain’ never been yourn—’scription licker.

This liquor was never yours—it's prescription liquor.

_Shine asserts his independence by bringing his own alcohol, challenging Patmore's control._

> Good whiskey is not like gin. Gin makes you forget, good whiskey makes you remember.

Good whiskey has a different effect than gin; it brings back memories rather than erasing them.

_This line sets the stage for Shine's flashbacks to his past._

> A piano is a malicious thing; it loves to slip out of your grip and snap at your toes, with an evil chuckle inside.

Pianos are dangerous and unpredictable, seeming to have a will of their own that can cause injury.

_The narrator personifies the piano to emphasize the hazards of Shine's job._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se/chapters