Thoughts on Pilate

One of the most unique characters in Song of Solomon would have to be Pilate. She is Macon Dead's sister (Milkman's aunt), and serves as a moral guide to the characters in the story, which is admirable. She is first introduced in the first scene in the novel, when she predicts the birth of Milkman. Right away, we get an unusual impression of her. However, she just keeps getting more unusual as we later find out she is born without a bellybutton, makes little voodoo dolls, and has a bag of human bones.

One thing I find interesting is that her name is a homophone for "Pilot", which we can interpret as symbolizing her 'leading those who are in need of guidance'. Despite being named after the man who plotted the crucifixion of Jesus, Pilate proves to be anything but wicked. She is incapable of cruelty, and is willing to do anything for others to relieve them of their suffering. 

When Milkman and Guitar get in trouble by the police, she feigns bewilderment to get them out of their situation. When her daughter Reba is beat up by her boyfriend, Pilate steps in and threatens the man at knife point to never go near her daughter again. She shows that despite her old age, she has never lost her strength and fortitude. Pilate is a woman who loves others and is willing to do anything to protect her family.