John is the main character of “The Rockpile.” He is Elizabeth’s illegitimate son, Gabriel’s stepson, and Roy’s older half brother. Unlike Roy, John is terrified of the rockpile. He also receives the brunt of Gabriel’s rage, as the story implies that Gabriel frequently hits him. Gabriel even attempts to punish John for Roy’s indiscretions though John is not responsible. Gabriel needs little excuse to beat John, viewing him as alien because he is the product and reminder of Elizabeth’s past life of sin. That he shares Elizabeth’s big eyes only reminds Gabriel that John is 100 percent Elizabeth’s son, not his own. John is also a source of embarrassment for Elizabeth who feels a special need to protect him from Gabriel. The fact that John is the product of sin likewise makes him feel like he has a permanent stain, especially given how aware he is of the concept of sin.

John is the obedient son who makes sure to avoid sin and temptation. He is a witness to the violence and sin he sees on the streets of Harlem, but he does not partake in either due to fear. Instead, he avoids other boys and judges the sinners who walk down his street.