Slavery
The character, John, who successfully overcomes his master and finds autonomy and contentment, symbolizes slavery. John's story reminds readers of the mistreatment of the enslaved people. For instance, an enslaved person has no freedom because the master dictates everything. Therefore, enslaved people have no autonomy over their lives.
The local bars
The narrator's adventures and source of narratives are epitomized by her frequent visits to the local bars. The people who spend most of their time at the local bars are knowledgeable about their cultures, politics, and economics of the day. Therefore, the narrator combines all the stories she hears to develop African American folktales.
African American culture
Hoodoo practitioners symbolize the African American culture. Hoodoo practitioners execute spiritual practices, which are merged with Native American culture. African Americans have a unique culture that they strive to retain despite being westernized in almost every aspect of their lives.
