Richard sees the pain and suffering that his mother felt and it becomes a symbol of injustice. He (RIchard) thought it would be that good people such as Ella Wright would have good health but it seems to be the opposite. Also, Richard sees the injustice, such as, poverty,and hunger that his mother faces which relates and reflects to his own problems. This encourages Richard because it gives an major obstacle for Richard and it also shows him that he needs to overcome obstacles to live the life he wants.
