The New Moon

Throughout the narrative, the new moon represents connection with nature, connection with spirit, and how the lives of the people of Umuaro are defined by both. Ezeulu has a particularly close relationship with the new moon and both these aspects of its meaning - his life, his purpose, and his identity are uniquely and particularly tied to them.

The Sacred Python

The sacred python is another symbol of nature and spirituality for the people of Umuaro. It is not quite a god, but is perceived and treated as a potent representative of the god. At the same time, for the white Christians of the area, attempting to "civilize" black Africans in general and the people of Umuaro in particular, it symbolizes all that is evil about the people, their philosophies, and their spiritual practices. This perspective is grounded in the Christian Bible story of...