Dream Keep Summary and Analysis

The triggerfish proves difficult to clean and provides little sustenance. Callahan is torn between desires. Stronger wind would mean faster travel, but calmer weather would mean better fishing and water collection. Dorado dolphinfish continually bump and slam the underside of the raft, annoying Callahan and interrupting his rest. Nearly by accident, Callahan spears and lands a large dorado. After killing and cleaning the fish, Callahan discovers that he has earned an enemy: the fish's widowed mate now batters the craft. Callahan is ridden with guilt even as he is thankful for the food.

Things are looking up. Fifteen pounds of dorado meat now hang down from the inside of the canopy and the solar still is producing water in adequate amounts. Callahan's survival momentarily assured, he takes a much needed rest, escaping to imaginary worlds comprised of hope and...