A great example of their contrasting ways of thinking is in their differing approaches to rescue Jim from his imprisonment. Huck plans to simply steal the key, get Jim out, run to the canoe, and escape down the river on the raft. Huck's plan to get Jim out of captivity is straightforward, simple, and effective. Tom, however, complains that "its too blame simple," and that "there ain't nothing to it"(page 224). Tom's plan is complicated and full of unnecessary additions because of his stubborn adherence to the romantic scenarios that he reads in his novels. He unnecessarily invents hard rock to dig through, a tall tower to climb down from, an infested cell full of rats, spiders, and snakes, and a high security situation. Huck, seeing no logic or practicality in Tom's plan, questions these highly unnecessary notions. Huck's realistic mind could not understand Tom's romantic nature and he disagrees with Tom's decisions on numerous occasions.
Tom Sawyer is the "leader of the gang." He is outspoken and very adventurous. He plays the role of the romantic, which is a key factor here because it conflicts with Huck's literal approach. When Huck was faced with the decision of whether or not to free Jim, he thinks back to what he has been taught. He knows only what has been instilled in his mind from his elders, unlike Tom who lives his life based on the stories of others. Huck says "It was a close place. I took it up, and held it in my hand. I was a-trembling, because I'd got to