The Community's Reaction and Gossip
The PearlTraces how the townspeople and neighbors respond to Kino's fortune, from initial joy to suspicion and finally awe.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Bearing strength in each eventdecreasingNews Spreads Like Fire
The Town's Nervous System
How News Travels
News moves faster than small boys can run. Before Kino returns home, the whole town knows he has found the Pearl of the World.
The Colonial Animal
The town is like a colonial animal with a nervous system. Everyone becomes related to Kino's pearl. The black distillate of evil begins to form.
Neighbors' Awe and Envy
The Gathering
Watching Kino's Dreams
The neighbors crowd into Kino's house. They listen to his plans for marriage, clothes, and education. They nod and murmur.
The Double-Edged Wonder
They know that if Kino succeeds, they will say he was transfigured. If he fails, they will say he was mad. Their support is conditional.
The Procession to Sell
The Historic Moment
Everyone Joins
The neighbors dress up and follow Kino to the pearl buyers. It is an expected show of solidarity. The procession is solemn.
The Beggars' Interest
The beggars from the church join, knowing that a poor man suddenly lucky is the best almsgiver. They are experts in financial analysis.
After the Failed Sale
The Neighbors' Debate
Theories and Judgments
The neighbors discuss whether Kino was cheated. Some think he should have taken the money. Others admire his courage. They are proud of him, but also fearful.
The Shift in Attitude
As Kino's situation worsens, the neighbors become more distant. They do not want to be associated with his bad luck.
The Burning House
The Fire
Neighbors' Response
The neighbors see Kino's house burn. They help put out sparks to save their own homes. Apolonia raises a formal lament.
The Search for Bones
They rake through the ashes, thinking Kino and his family are dead. The community mourns, but also feels relief that the trouble is over.
The Return
The Procession of Grief
The People's Awe
Kino and Juana return, carrying Coyotito's body. The people crowd back, letting them pass in silence. They seem removed from human experience.
The Legend Begins
The story of the great pearl will be told for generations. The community will remember this moment as a parable of good and evil.
Afternoon of the first day
Evening of the first day
Morning of the selling day
That evening
Before dawn of the third day
Late afternoon of the third day
