Preaching and Eating

It seems that the only two things that cause Harlem to stand still momentarily are church services and big meals. These are the only moments during which crime ceases to exist, showing their utmost importance to even the lowest of the low in society. Although not everyone may go to church, Sundays are respected by all. "Everything happens in Harlem six days a week, but Sunday morning, people worship God. Those who are not religious stay in bed...A drunk better not be caught molesting them (churchgoing families); he'll get all the black beat off him" (pg.110). There is a similar significance associated with eating. When Grave Digger and Coffin Ed go to Mammy Louise's, there seems to be some sort of unwritten rule preventing them from discussing the crime while they are there. ALso, when Deke O'Malley's congregation meets to discuss his innocence and start up a collection for him in prison, food takes precedent. "On many a table there was chicken and dumplings or roast pork and sweet potatoes, and crime took a rest" (pg. 112).