In Chapter 1, Paton uses contradictory paragraphs that contrast a lively, flourishing land to the land that is desolate and empty. He describes “rich and matted” grass that “cares for men” in the first piece, then a place that is “red and bare” with “course and sharp” land. These contradicting representations symbolize the difference between the land of the black people and the land of the white people. It suggests that the land of the black farmers is always shown as barren and dry , where as the land of white farmland are always depicted as being fruitful and lovely.
While Stephen Kumalo travels to Johannesburg, Paton uses diction and detail to show the destruction and brokenness of the land of South Africa. He describes the soil as “sick” and “almost beyond healing.” The events in which he describes this land reveals the troubles that the country is currently pushing through. South Africa, at this time, was going through the Apartheid, the system of racial segregation forced by the country's government. Because of this segregation, the nation is struggling with staying united and alive, just as the soil that Paton is illustrating.
Although Paton repeatedly describes the land as "sick," "bare," and "course," the land was not always like that. The land may be ravaged, but it is clearly not naturally infertile, with the right nurturing and protection, the possibility for natural beauty and wellness seems endless. This supports Paton's idea that the people of South Africa did not have to live with the sickening Apartheid lifestyle forever. With the right treatment, the people could come together as one and be equal.
All in all, Paton advances descriptions of South Africa's symbolic land in order to reflect upon his overall messages the differences in the lifestyles of the South Africans, the necessity of change, but also offers hope to the people of South Africa.
