NIkki Jackson's 2nd POst

“The queen must produce some substance that attracts the workers and that can be obtained from her only by direct contact. This substance evidently stimulates the normal working behavior in the hive. This chemical messenger has been called “queen substance. Experiments have been shown that the bees obtain it directly from the body of the queen.” Other than the obvious outlook on this quote (as the black Mary symbolizing the queen), August seems to be another very possible applicant. When Lily and Rosaleen appear at the house, she takes them in. It seems as though her ‘queen substance’ is her generosity and kindness. August is always there to help out when people are sad or upset for any reason, and she doesn’t get frustrated or angry. In this chapter, she calms Lily and takes care of her when June is being hostile towards the small girl. Instead of agreeing with June, she stands up for the equality of all, and makes Lily feel accepted eventhough the she is white. Happiness and warmth always seem to be pouring out of her, and touching other hearts. This direct contact has lightened the mood in the house, and has made the guests feel more comfortable. When this queen bee produces her substance, whether it’s calming May or easing the June-to-Lily tension, she tends to influence others to lift their spirits and help out. Lily seems to seek comfort in August, too. It is almost as though August is viewed as her guardian, someone to talk to, her mother.