Point of View

The point-of-view of the novel is that of the narrator, who introduces the story and who occasionally interjects with comments and observations on the events of the story, as well as pleas for help. At the beginning of the novel, the narrator explains that he is telling this story against the wishes of some residents in Ilmorog. In this sense, the narrator is determined to speak the truth and seek justice for those implicated in the story. The narrator’s determination and strength of will are revealed again when, reaching the end of his story, the narrator calls on “you who asked me to share this story” to “Give me strength…Give me the tongue. Give me the words…” (247). Thus, the narrator admits to telling a collaborate act, one that cannot be undertaken alone.

However, unlike some of the famed narrators in literary history, this...