Essay Questions

What is Marlon James's main theme in 'Black Leopard, Red Wolf'?

The main theme in the entire text is mystical powers. Most of the characters in the book have unique abilities to do different things. For instance, Tracker is the protagonist who has a unique ability to smell the lost people. The king recruits Tracker alongside talented individuals to look for the lost boy. Similarly, the Leopard has mystical powers of shape-lifting, and he is among the people working with Tracker to locate the lost boy.

Who is Tracker, and what is his significance?

Tracker is the central character, and the narrative revolves around his mystical powers. Tracker is a significant character because he has built a reputation for tracing lost people and helping them to reunite with their family members. Therefore, the importance of Tracker is not only about his unique ability of smell but also a good reputation that has earned him respect.

How momentous is the lost boy to the enslaver?

The lost boy is an emblem of treasure for the king. The reader realizes that the king has deployed many people with unique abilities to look for the young lost boy. Consequently, the young boy symbolizes the lost treasure, and the king is doing everything possible to bring him back.