African Mysticism (Motif)
The story delves into superstitions, psychic energy, rituals, and fortune-telling through the eponymous character. Frimbo is the conjure man from West Africa and a Harvard graduate residing and working in Harlem. His vocation as a fortune-teller and conjurer sees him incorporate the aspects of African mysticism. Thus, as this mystery story progresses the world of mysticism and rationalism cross to enrich the detective narrative.
Darkness (Symbol)
The story is shrouded in darkness both figuratively and literally. Frimbo’s place of work has very little lighting to accentuate his illusions and fortune-telling. At the time of his initial ‘murder,’ the room is covered in darkness as well as when he is shot at the end. Moreover, during a psychic reading, the only light glares on the client while the conjurer remains in the dark. Darkness symbolizes the lack of answers and secrets that surround Frimbo’s death, his psychic business, and the other characters.
Secrecy (Motif)
The mystery behind the apparent death of the conjurer demonstrates the secrets that the people around him harbor. As Dart and Archer investigate the crime they come across potential suspects as they all have a hidden agenda. Furthermore explores the moral ambiguity of the characters since they engage in questionable and illegal activities. Therefore secrecy is part and parcel of this Harlem community and also around the details of the crime.
The African American experience (Motif)
The story takes place during the Harlem Renaissance hence focuses on the experiences of the black communities. Moreover, the backdrop of the Great Depression highlights their experiences in this period of economic instability. Through the characters Bubber and Jinx the author explores the struggles of black men during this era of uncertainty. The black men face social barriers to the path of success even though they are qualified in their specific fields.
Revenge (Motif)
The motive behind Frimbo’s murder is the source of the conflict in the narrative. Frimbo is aware of his many enemies which prompts him to conduct his business in guise and mystery. Thus following his death and revival the path towards finding his killer reveals this motif. The investigation reveals that Doty Hicks tried to curse him as vengeance. Lastly, his murderer is revealed to be Samuel Crouch who was seeking revenge.
