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Intrapersonal - Write a diary entry for a major character on the novel
Jem's Diary Entry

Today, I will be writing a diary on one of the main characters in "To Kill a Mockingbird" - Jem.

The diary entry will be on Tom Robinson's trial.
Mid-morning, Scout, Dill and I went to the courthouse to witness Tom Robinson's trial. As the court was crowded, we could not find a seat. Fortunately, Reverend Sykes gave us a place in the coloured balcony to witness the court proceedings. From the balcony, we got a good view of the entire court.

Firstly, the witnesses gave their accounts of the incident while Atticus and Mr Gilmer questioned them. The two lawyers than gave their respective speeches. Atticus was very calm as well as confident in his speech to defend Tom Robinson. This was as far as I recollect besides the fact I told Scout to take Dill out of the courtroom. My mind was in a haze as I contemplated the court proceedings. I was devastated, confused beyond measure and hurt by the proceedings in the courtroom.

I was furious over the way Mr Gilmer cross- examined Tom Robinson, as if he was dirt. The fact that Mr Gilmer took every opportunity to trap Tom only further incensed me. I was confused over the reason that this court still took place, with not a shred of evidence that prove Tom Robinson guilty except the accounts of the Ewells, who were commonly known to be untrustworthy, cruel and violent people. Atticus's confidence in delivering his convincing speech made me think that Tom Robinson will be cleared of every charges.

However, when one by one, the jury announced "guilty", my heart sank like a stone to the bottom of the ocean. I could scarcely believe that they can find Tom guilty on such grounds. I felt numb, unaware of what was happening around me. The word "guilty" rang loudly in my mind continuously for a few minutes. The outright discrimination against blacks was so outrageous. The marginalization of blacks from society made me feel disgusted at the current judical system. I suddenly felt a blazing hatred towards the jury, each and every one of them for their unfairness and biasness towards Tom Robinson.

After the case, Atticus came to comfort me. He explained to me what is reality, life for us is never fair and I should get over it quickly. Atticus advised me to fight for the right thing despite the obstacles laid out. After listening to him, I realized how foolish and childish was my youthful ideology that everyone is fair and just. I plan to put aside my naivety and face the real world at last.