Macon's lack of compassion is illustrated in his treatment of Porter and Mrs. Bains, both tenants of his, but it is especially evident in his treatment of his sister, Pilate, whom he despises for refusing to conform to his rigidly defined standards of correct behavior. His disdain and lack of respect for other blacks are also evident in his speech, which echoes the beliefs and stereotypes of racist whites — he is the first one in the novel to use the word "nigger" to refer to Porter, Pilate, and Guitar. Unlike Pilate, who has earned her way in the world by working hard and persevering, Macon inherited his initial wealth through Ruth. Not satisfied with his wife's inheritance, his insatiable greed prompts him to try to steal his sister's inheritance — gold — as well.
Macon longs for some connection to his past. Although he recognizes that Pilate has managed to maintain that connection, he refuses to yield to her influence, fearing that any expression of love or dependence will make him appear weak. As a result, he finds himself spiritually and psychologically estranged from himself and others, desperately clinging to the illusion that material success is all he needs to make his life worthwhile.
