Kino vs. Himself

Kino's internal struggle between his desire for a better future and his growing awareness of the pearl's evil.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Dream Begins

The Visions Kino's Hopes Kino sees a future of marriage, education, and wealth. He is filled with hope. The First Doubt But he is afraid of his own words. He knows that plans invite attack. The internal conflict starts.

Juana's Warning

The Plea Juana Says the Pearl is Evil Juana begs Kino to throw away the pearl. He refuses. His desire for the future battles his wife's wisdom. The Hardening Kino feels a shell of hardness drawing over him. He suppresses his doubts.

The Pearl's Dark Visions

The Changing Images The Pearl Shows Evil When Kino looks into the pearl, he no longer sees a bright future. He sees the dead man, Juana's beaten face, Coyotito's fever. The Sinister Music The Song of the Pearl becomes interwoven with the Song of Evil. Kino's internal conflict intensifies.

The Decision to Fight

Kino's Resolve I Am a Man Kino declares he will fight the evil. He will not give up the pearl. His pride and obsession override his fear. The Internal War Kino is half insane and half god. He drives his strength against the mountain. The internal conflict is unresolved.

The Final Realization

The Pearl's Ugliness Kino Sees the Truth Kino sees the pearl as gray and ulcerous. He realizes it has destroyed his family. The Surrender He throws the pearl into the sea. The internal conflict ends with his acceptance of defeat.

After finding the pearl

Late that night

During the flight

After the second attack

After Coyotito's death