Native Son Post #6 Pg. 163

"I can fix it so you can pick up the money and nobody'll bother you" (146).

Bigger is being dumb by challenging himself to go further with this murder. If he wants to challenge himself and see if he can get away with putting up a ransom for ten thousand dollars, then Bigger should be the one picking up the money; not Bessie. Bigger needs to start using his brain. He is only causing bigger problems for himself in the future. Bigger will get nervous and fearful as soon as he finds himself in a tough situation. Bessie is a sensible girl and unsure about Bigger's plan, but because she loves him, she falls for Bigger's trap. Bessie represents Bigger's conscience by reminding him how big of a risk he is taking by sneaking around with a big amount of money and flashing it around. She keeps questioning him and making Bigger angry more and more. Bigger would rather kill her than listen to her. Bessie is the conscience that Bigger wants to stop from entering his head. He knows she is right, but refuses to accept his wrongdoings. Although Bessie seems like somewhat of a good girl, she is vulnerable when it comes to money and liquor. Bigger knows he is going to get his way with Bessie, but when it comes time for the task, he'll push himself to do it and feel exactly the way he did with Gus. If not, Bigger will ruin himself by acting and thinking he is superior to the whites and blacks.

Will Bessie stay devoted to Bigger or turn on him?