The central problem that occurs in the novel, Cry the Beloved Country, is stated by Msimangu in Chapter 5. He states that it is the problem of people caught between two worlds. Towards the end of Book III the change in both Stephen Kumalu and James Jarvis differs significantly than in the beginning of the book.
             The first chapter can be viewed as being symbolic between the whites and the natives. Geographically, the whites live above the natives on the best land, whereas the natives live below on the barren land. Throughout the novel the land was mentioned frequently and always relates to something that is happening or will happen. The drought which covers the land in Chapter thirty becomes another symbol for the drought of the spirit. Rain and water are symbols of birth and love. However, the lack there of means that death or withdrawal of love. Even though the village is being destroyed by the drought there is still a sense of unity than what was found in the city. Later in the chapter when Jarvis is in the valley it begins to rain. This also is another sign of renewed hope. In reference to the beginning of the novel, most of the problems are related to the fact that man is separated from the land and that the land is becoming a wasteland. At the end of the novel, there is hope that man can renew the land.
             Stephen Kumalo shows fear towards the white world in which he has encountered. In Chapter five Kumalo is faced with the task of trying to bring his family back together. However, on the contrary he is also faced with breaking up the society which he fears. Through all fears and distrust the city has created for Kumalo, Msimangu will have an affect on Kumalo's life more than anyone in this novel. This is where Msimangu states the main problem of the novel.
             Stephen Kumalo undergoes many changes during the novel. Before his journey to Johannesburg he had no understanding of the outside world. He did not understand wh...