Kino vs. The Scorpion

The initial conflict between Kino's family and the natural world, represented by the scorpion's attack on Coyotito.

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The Scorpion Descends

The Threat The Scorpion's Movement The scorpion moves down the rope toward Coyotito's hanging box. Kino sees it and hears the Song of Evil. The Family's Response Kino moves to catch it, but the baby shakes the rope and the scorpion falls, stinging Coyotito. The conflict with nature begins.

Kino Crushes the Enemy

The Killing Kino's Rage Kino catches the scorpion, rubs it to a paste, and beats it into the earth. His fury is primal. The Aftermath But the damage is done. Coyotito is poisoned. The conflict with nature has wounded the family.

The Poison's Effect

The Swelling Coyotito's Condition The swelling on Coyotito's shoulder spreads. Juana sucks the wound and applies a poultice. The poison is a natural enemy. The Need for Help The family cannot fight nature alone. They need the doctor, which leads to the next conflict.

Recovery

The Swelling Subsides Natural Healing The poison recedes from Coyotito's body. The family believes the pearl has brought luck. The False Resolution The conflict with nature seems resolved, but it has set off a chain of human conflicts.

Shortly after dawn

Immediately after

Later that morning

After the pearl is found