What role does the Eden Springs amusement park play in the story, and how does it reflect the colony's values and the broader societal context of Benton Harbor?

The Eden Springs amusement park serves as a central symbol in the story, reflecting the colony's values and the broader societal context of Benton Harbor. It embodies the colony's vision of a "Paradise on Earth," showcasing their blend of religious fervor and earthly pleasures. The park's success and popularity highlight the colony's ability to adapt and appeal to the surrounding community, despite their unconventional beliefs. It also serves as a source of wealth and fame, allowing the colony to thrive economically. The park's decline mirrors the broader societal changes in Benton Harbor, including industrialization and racial tensions, which eventually lead to the colony's downfall. The park's eventual abandonment and decay symbolize the erosion of the colony's ideals and the fading of their once vibrant community.