Mark Twain, American writer and journalist, once said: “Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet spreads on the heel that has crushed it”. In this quote, Twain's words describe the idea that a positive outcome will come from forgiveness and ultimately reconciliation of two parties after an unpleasant circumstance. Similarly, in his novel, Cry, the Beloved Country, Alan Paton describes the reconciliation of father and son in the Kumalo and Jarvis family; Following setbacks, such as death and imprisonment, Kumalo and Jarvis are finally able to sense a better understanding of their children. Through his novel, Paton suggests that misfortunes initiate reconciliation that strengthens relationships and brings out a clear and true understanding of the other person. Although Kumalo despised Absalom's actions in Johannesburg, Kumalo reconciles with his son after seeing that Absalom's misfortune has led him to reveal his maturity and morality. While searching for his son, Absalom, Kumalo discovers a side of Absalom's character that he had not yet witnessed. When he learns that Absalom committed a crime and was involved in the murder of Arthur Jarvis, Kumalo struggles to accept the fact that his son has transformed into a completely different person, whose moral characteristics he disapproves of. Kumalo doesn't like the stranger he sees, who is immature and irresponsible. However, Kumalo realizes that Absalom should be pardoned after the trial, in which Absalom is sentenced to death. In their last conversation with each other, Kumalo “took her son's hand, and they were no longer lifeless, but clung to his, seeking some comfort, some security. And the old man held them tighter, and said again, be good company...... middle of paper......guy and inequality. Paton portrays this theme of reconciliation in Jarvis's loss of his son because his loss results in a stronger mutual understanding and father-son relationship, which is the positive outcome of reconciliation. Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country clearly draws attention to the theme of reconciliation. reconciliation between father and son through Absalom and Arthur's relationships with Kumalo and Jarvis, respectively. Paton's work suggests that, following reconciliation, these relationships will ultimately lead to a benefit for one, if not both parties. These benefits include, but are not limited to, a stronger connection and a deeper understanding of your true nature. While reconciliation may be difficult, as seen in the situation of Kumalo and Jarvis, it is vital to not only forgive but also restore relationships with, for the benefit of, society as a whole..