J.D. and the Great Barber Battle

Haircuts symbolize the internal and external conflicts that J.D. faces throughout the book and also represent The Tension between Confidence and Arrogance. J.D.’s internal conflict begins with his bad haircut in Chapter 1. From that moment on, J.D. is concerned with how others will react and view him, and this prompts him to search for a solution. Further, this leads to J.D. discovering his talent for cutting hair and triggers the main external conflict between J.D. and Henry Jr. Hair propels J.D. along his character arc, letting him find his confidence and then learn how over-confidence and arrogance can lead to him turning into someone he doesn’t like. This journey makes J.D. sympathetic toward Henry Jr., even after how the man threatens J.D.’s business. In doing so, hair represents community and forgiveness, as the partnership between J.D. and Henry Jr. benefits both of them, as well as the people of their town.

The stylish and unique haircuts J.D. gives himself and others also symbolize the importance of Taking Pride in Personal Accomplishments. More broadly, hairstyles are an important component of Black culture and hold historical significance, as hairstyles were often used to denote status, and during slavery they were a way to communicate or direct others to freedom.