SA reads discussion

This last bit was very emotional, multiple losses and endings.

Dawn has left for Jhb. She strikes me as lost. Constantly trying to fit in but damned by her genetics and the society of the time. I'm dubious as to the acceptance that she finds in Jhb as a dancer. She worries me by her absence and paucity of communication.
Concerned about exotic dancers, prostitution, abuse etc.

Ada's piano recital is triumphant but the subsequent arrest is a true injustice. One is reminded of all the everyday innocents caught up the violence and degradation of Apartheid.

Cath's death is tragic and triumphant. Tragic as a good person has left this world; but triumphant in her recognition of Ada and Dawn as family. I think even without the biological connection to Dawn, she would have taken care of them.

Ada's faith, honor and gentleness sustain her. Again I wonder about the everyday people who persevere because of these qualities.

I was interested that Dawn named her fair- skinned son Thebo. After being an in- betweener herself, she passed that to him. On one hand, it is a recognition of his past and his roots; but on the other may have been a dangerous action for that time and place.

Just as Rose surprised me with her hatred, Helen surprised me with her love. She's reminiscent of Cath.