[In Feather Woman of the Jungle] Tutuola's raconteur, in accordance with African tradition, is an old man, the typical sage who passes on his experiences and wisdom to the younger generation. He casts a spell on his audience with his palm wine and stories as a "baba alawo" would with his concoctions and incantations. Each story-telling session is preceded by dancing and drinking to help establish a spirit of togetherness. They form part of the ritual. There is the need in the raconteur to be in control, to be in authority, to have power, a need that has driven him to be somewhat repetitive. However, his skill earns him respect and love from his subjects and admiration from the neighboring villages. (p. 20)

In keeping with the oral tradition, Tutuola's hero is a romantic with romantic stories to tell. There are elements of exaggeration in the tales, with characters...