Summary

The narrator says that residents of Ilmorog have told him that the following story should be concealed or suppressed because it was either “too disgraceful” (7) or too sorrowful. The narrator rejects this logic, arguing that knowing the “pitfalls” and “tree stumps” (7) in one’s way will make for a smoother journey. He hopes that the Devil will be crucified and cautions that he not be taken down from this cross.

The narrator identifies himself as the “Gicaandi Player, Prophet of Justice” (7). He hears pleading voices and fasts for seven days. At the end of the week, a voice speaks to him. This voice belongs both to the people and to God. The narrator accepts his duty to share a prophesy with the people, saying, “Come, my friend, / Come let us reason together” (8-9).

Analysis

This brief introductory chapter, giving the reader some context for...