What is the relationship between Huck and Jim?

Huck's relationship with Jim begins with a paradox. What I mean paradox is that Huck wrestles with what he thinks are normal  racist attitudes and the fact that he really likes this guy. Southern culture was so dominated by racism that Huck actually thinks his fondness for Jim is abnormal. By the end of the story Huck truly looks to Jim as a friend, even a kindred spirit. His friendship with Jim even transcends the friendship that he had with Tom Sawyer.