The Inevitability of Fate and the Gods' Displeasure

Explores the theme that the gods do not love human plans and that fate punishes those who try to rise above their station.

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The Gods' Dislike of Plans

Kino's Fear The Realization Kino knows that the gods do not love men's plans. They take revenge on a man who is successful through his own efforts. The Trap Having made a plan, Kino cannot destroy it. He is trapped by his own ambition. Fate is set against him.

The Priest's Sermon

Staying in One's Station The Religious View The priest preaches that each man is a soldier sent by God to guard his post. To leave one's station is to endanger the castle. The Fate of the Ambitious Kino's desire to rise is against divine order. Fate will punish him.

The Prohibition Against Wanting Too Much

The Cultural Belief The Danger of Desire Juana knows it is not good to want a thing too much. It drives the luck away. You must be tactful with the gods. Kino's Violation Kino wants too much. He breaks the prohibition. Fate turns against him.

The Series of Disasters

The Inevitable Tragedy One Blow After Another Kino is attacked, his house burned, his canoe broken, his son killed. Each disaster seems fated. The Gods' Revenge The gods are taking revenge on Kino for his presumption. Fate is inexorable.

The Acceptance of Fate

Kino's Surrender Throwing the Pearl Kino throws the pearl back into the sea. He accepts his fate. He returns to his station. The Fate Fulfilled The tragedy is complete. Kino has learned that the gods do not love men's plans. Fate has won.

After Kino makes his plans

Earlier, as recalled

Throughout the story

From the first attack onward

Sunset of the third day