We learn that Sportcoat was “doomed from the beginning,” according to the midwife who delivered him and yet he’s still alive more than 70 years later. What’s meant by him being “doomed from the beginning”? Sportcoat shoots Deems in front of many witnesses, and yet no one rats him out—everyone circles around to protect him. What does this say about the spirit of the community there— the church, and Cause housing project—and about Sportcoat? | Oprah's Book Club