Cry, The Beloved Country: Differences Of The Ruled And The Rulers The novel, Cry, the Beloved Country, by Alan Paton illustrates the differences of the ruled and the rulers. It presents a more enhanced portrayal of black and white relations in South Africa during the apartheid era. The author shows, in a subtle non-preachy manner, how racial discrimination made it difficult for blacks in South Africa to succeed socially and successfully. The theme of the novel, Cry, the Beloved Country revolves around the idea of prejudice causing violence. Throughout the novel, the author reveals how th