Stevenson's Grandmother (Symbol)
Stevenson's relationship with his grandmother symbolizes intergenerational trauma and wisdom. Through his grandmother, Stevenson can trace a direct connection to American slavery, but also to the hope and resilience needed to overcome racial and economic injustice. His grandmother teaches him the importance of closeness, which he takes into his legal practice by getting as close as he can to his clients' lives to better advocate for people society has maligned.
Walter McMillian's Case (Symbol)
The mishandling of Walter McMillian's case stands as a symbol for systemic injustice the American judicial system inflicts on racialized and impoverishment people. Racial prejudice led to his wrongful arrest and imprisonment for a murder he did not commit, and his sentencing to death row. The fraught but ultimately successful fight for his freedom represents the continued need for widespread legal reforms in the United States.
Police Corruption (Motif)
Throughout Just Mercy, Stevenson includes instances when law enforcement officers act in underhanded and self-serving ways. At the heart of Walter's wrongful conviction is law enforcement's desire to pin the Ronda Morrison's murder on anyone they can, and Sheriff Tate succeeds in getting Walter convicted by manipulating witnesses and intimidating anyone who stands in his way. The police also behave unscrupulously when they bring metal detectors and dogs into the courtroom to intimidate Walter's supporters.
Hymns (Motif)
On more than one occasion in the memoir, condemned men reveal their sensitive spiritual sides through singing or requesting hymns. At the end of their first meeting, Henry sings a hymn that Stevenson recognizes from childhood. Similarly, Herbert Richardson requests that the hymn "The Old Rugged Cross" be played during his execution. These religious songs reveal the men's connection to the spiritual traditions of the Deep South and serve to illuminate their spiritual natures shining out of their dark and despair-filled circumstances.
Closeness (Motif)
Early in the memoir, Stevenson discusses the importance of closeness in truly understanding the issues and people he advocates for. By getting close to his clients' lives and families, he is able to understand the impact the judicial system has on individuals and communities. For Stevenson, closeness engenders compassion, which is necessary to making reforms that treat all people with equal respect.
