Kino and Juan Tomás's Brotherhood

The bond between Kino and his older brother, who offers wisdom, warning, and shelter despite his fear.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Brother's Presence

The Scorpion Crisis Juan Tomás Arrives Juan Tomás comes with his family when Coyotito is stung. He stands by Kino. The brotherly bond is immediate. The Silent Support He does not speak much, but his presence is reassuring. He is the elder, the voice of experience.

The Warning

The Story of the Agent The Caution Juan Tomás tells Kino about the failed attempt to send an agent to the capital. He warns Kino of the danger. The Brother's Concern He is afraid for Kino. His love makes him speak, even though Kino does not listen.

The Counsel

The Brother's Advice The Structure of Life Juan Tomás tells Kino he has defied the whole way of life. He is afraid. He tries to protect Kino with words. The Bond Tested Kino is determined. The brotherly bond is strained by Kino's obsession.

The Shelter

The Hiding Juan Tomás's Risk Despite his fear, Juan Tomás hides Kino and Juana. He assumes authority, telling Apolonia to guard the door. The Borrowed Supplies He goes among the neighbors, spreading false stories and borrowing food and a knife. He risks his own safety for his brother.

The Farewell

The Embrace A Death-like Goodbye Juan Tomás embraces Kino with the double embrace and kisses him on both cheeks. He says, "Go with God," as if it were a death. The Last Question He asks if Kino will give up the pearl. Kino says no. The brotherly bond cannot save him.

The Silent Mourner

The Return The Unspoken Greeting When Kino and Juana return, Juan Tomás raises his hand but does not speak. He leaves his hand in the air uncertainly. The Grief He has lost his brother and his nephew. The brotherly bond is now one of shared sorrow.

Morning of the first day

On the way to sell the pearl

Evening of the selling day

Before dawn of the third day

Night before the flight

Late afternoon of the third day