Wright's Response to his Mother's Paralysis

When Wright's mother falls ill after a major stroke, he initially begins to take care of the household. Richard begins completing the chores his mother previously did. Instead of sulking, becoming depressed, and somewhat lost like a typical young child would do in Wright's situation he matures through his mother's illness and starts to become more of an adult male figure in the house. Instead of receiving gifts, such as food, with open arms, he realizes that by accepting these charities it makes himself look inadequate and unable to provide for his family, so he refuses the meals, even though he is in desperate need of food and is starving.
Once Granny arrives Wright's behavior shifts. He stops visiting his mother and ultimately avoids the situation. Because he has continuously been "hungry" and declined affection and love he feels as though this is simply another loss. The death of his mother is simply another inevitable in Wright's life.