Throughout The Power of One, and Mississippi Burning, Bryce Courtenay and Alan Parker respectively explore the varying effects of racism and the individual in hostile environments. Both authors explore these themes by setting their texts in society which are divided along several lines: colour, race and tongue. Where Parker rewrites and manipulates history to expose the nature of a segregated society, Courtenay contrastingly explores the idea of the power of one within the individual. To engage the reader’s response towards these societies, both authors explore particular experiences and emotions of central male antagonists, thereby personalising a man’s journey towards the truth. Both authors also use the conclusion of their texts to reinforce their ideas. Parker creates despair over the lack of change in the society, while Courtenay presents diligence and optimism as the central character is able to overcome societal…show more content… Parker delves into a time when anti-liberal values of a small town America appear ascendant, the civil rights movements heightened during the Freedom of Summer, and when the Supreme Court is whittling away at the achievements of the 1960’s, the film’s underlying message is that all those battles have to be fought again and with more resilience. Parker’s use of wide shots, slow panning, and bright lighting in when the director introduces the small town contrasts the dark lighting that creates a sense of danger. The director’s sequencing of the opening scenes where made purposefully to demonstrate the contrasting, complex, and murky perceptions of Mississippi. The idea is developed throughout the film that appearances can be deceiving. The deliberate choice of setting and historical events by both authors, explores the idea of the direct and indirect influence of racism which can be bred by ignorance and