Foil

Character Role Analysis

Jade, Son

Morrison builds the entire conflict of Tar Baby on Jade and Son's differing opinions and priorities. Jade believes in an individualistic approach to life: that the best way to live is to get an education and be as successful as possible. Son, on the other hand, believes in a more community-based, peaceful way of life.

Both of them have good arguments to back up their positions, and Morrison never seems to side with one position over the other. And, for a little while at least, Jade and Son's opposing beliefs coexist. They're both really smitten with each other, and so Son experiences New York (the most Jade-like city in America) and Jade experiences Eloe (the most Son-like town in America). Unfortunately, neither place becomes Home Sweet Home and their relationship sinks like the Titanic.