The Rock and The River

When the day of the Panther meeting comes, Mama asks Sam about Stick, but Sam does not say much. Mama explains that Father and Stick are the same: stubborn and uncompromising. Sam asks Mama if he can go see Maxie, but because it is late, he is not allowed. Sam sneaks out the window and meets Maxie at the Panther political education class anyway. Sam sees Stick there and listens to Leroy, a Black Panther leader, speak.

On his way home, Sam runs into Father. Father drives him home in silence. When they get home, Father tells Sam to go to his room, but Mama tells him to stay and explain himself. Mama and Father glare at each other, and Father tells Sam to go to his room for a few minutes. Mama and Father argue. They call Sam back, in and Sam admits he went to the political education class. Father encourages Sam to help him prepare for Bucky’s trial instead of getting involved with the Panthers. Sam agrees. He then goes to his room and reads more about the Panthers.