When [the letter] was finished, he sat wondering if he should send it. For suppose the woman had died of a heart that was broken, because her son had been killed. Then was he, the father of the man who had killed him, to send such a letter?
Cry, the Beloved Country p. 292
Fear is a prominent theme in this book. Many people need to overcome their fear; some do and others don’t. And those that don’t ultimately suffer for it—whether that fear leads to paralysis or some action in hopes of keeping it at bay. Kumalo suffers from fear throughout the novel. Yet Kumalo also is a patient man, rarely in a hurry, content to think of what is right—and guided by the One who determines right. By possessing a mind that is not harassed by busyness, Kumalo is able to think of right and wrong, to put himself in others’ shoes, and ultimately do what is right, despite the fear. Fear is a constant companion in this novel for Kumalo, but it is not his master.
Lingering Over Leaves 