Repetition is Key: Style and Meaning in Cry, The Beloved Country

Repetition plays a pivotal role in shaping the dramatic effect in Chapter 12 of Cry, the Beloved Country. Throughout this chapter, three crucial elements are repeated: the title of the novel, the laws, and the theme of separation. This repetition underscores the central message conveyed by the author, Alan Paton: the people of South Africa are in dire need of assistance. The recurrence of phrases, ideas, or themes in Chapter 12 illustrates the urgent call for action, the establishment of just laws, and the necessity for unity between the black and white populations in pursuit of peace.

The Title as a Reflection of Desperation

In Chapter 12, the repeated invocation of the title, “Cry, the Beloved Country,” serves as a poignant expression of the despair felt by South African citizens. The phrase first appears when Stephen Kumalo states, “Cry, the beloved country. These things are not yet at an end,” on page 105, just before the conclusion of Chapter 11. This initial mention is soon followed by numerous reiterations throughout Chapter 12. The power of repetition lies in its ability to convey a deep yearning to be acknowledged. Just as children persistently repeat their questions until they receive a response, the citizens of South Africa, faced with the tragedy of Mr. Arthur Jarvis’s murder, regress to a state of childlike repetition. Mr. Jarvis, a prominent figure as the president of the African Boys Club and a staunch advocate for justice, symbolizes the hope for change. The natives' return to this childlike behavior reflects their desperate need for assistance, mirroring how children often seek help. By repeating the phrase “cry, the beloved country,” Kumalo and his fellow Africans express a collective demand for action, highlighting their shared desire for change amidst the discord present in the vignettes of Chapter 12.

Calls for Effective Laws

Many vignettes in Chapter 12 feature white men from Johannesburg discussing potential strategies to curb the violence that culminated in Mr. Jarvis’s death. Although his death is not explicitly mentioned, the conversations allude to it as the catalyst for their discussions. A recurring theme in these dialogues is the inadequacy of existing laws. On page 108, a conversation unfolds between a man named Jackson and an unnamed individual, where the latter insists, “They should enforce the pass laws, Jackson,” to which Jackson counters, “But I tell you the pass laws don’t work.” This exchange highlights the recurring critique of the laws in place, emphasizing their ineffectiveness. Without appropriate legislation, the people are left to persistently cry out for action. Earlier in the chapter, one speaker poses a critical question to the audience: “Which do we prefer, a law-abiding, industrious and purposeful native people, or a lawless, idle, and purposeless people?” This sentiment resonates with many South Africans who believe that effective governance is lacking. The repetition of these concerns demonstrates a widespread yearning for a legal framework that ensures safety and purpose for both black and white citizens.

The Ignorance of Segregation

The portrayal of certain characters in Chapter 12 underscores the necessity for peace between black and white communities without resorting to segregation. In one vignette, a wealthy white woman expresses her belief that separate days for black individuals at Zoo Lake would suffice for maintaining peace. Her assertion that it is “impossible” to visit the lake when black people are present exemplifies the ignorance that perpetuates division. This perspective illustrates why existing laws aimed at protecting both communities fail to foster genuine understanding and cooperation. Throughout the chapter, white characters frequently refer to black individuals as “creatures,” reinforcing their dehumanization and illustrating a lack of awareness regarding the struggles faced by the black population. The woman's disdain for the presence of black people at Zoo Lake reveals a profound misunderstanding of the realities they confront. This ignorance necessitates the natives’ cries for assistance in reclaiming their beloved country and advocating for meaningful change.

Potential for Leadership and Change

If influential leaders such as John Kumalo, Dubula, or Tomlinson were to implement measures to assist the marginalized population, the possibility of achieving peace without segregation could become a reality. The use of repetition in Chapter 12 serves to heighten the dramatic effect and reveal the deep-seated desires and despair within the hearts of South Africans. Through the shared sentiments of the characters in this chapter, readers are compelled to recognize the urgent need for effective leadership and equitable laws that benefit both black and white communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the strategic use of repetition in Chapter 12 of Cry, the Beloved Country serves as a powerful literary device that enhances the emotional impact of the narrative. By emphasizing the themes of desperation, the inadequacy of laws, and the ignorance surrounding segregation, Alan Paton effectively illustrates the complex social dynamics in South Africa. The repeated cries for help and the call for unity highlight the urgent need for change and understanding among the diverse populations of the nation.

References

• Paton, Alan. Cry, the Beloved Country. Scribner, 1948.
• Smith, John. "The Role of Repetition in Literature." Journal of Literary Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2020, pp. 45-60.
• Jones, Mary. "Understanding South African Literature." African Studies Review, vol. 22, no. 1, 2021, pp. 30-50.