Part One, Stopping The World: Chapter 3, Losing Self-importance Summary and Analysis

Castaneda and the friend who put him in touch discuss Don Juan. The friend says that the old man is crazy. Castaneda does not agree, because the Indian demonstrates an ability to read him too accurately. He decides to visit him again on December 28, 1960. They walk for hours without mentioning plants. Along the way, Don Juan shows him how to walk with his fingers curled "gently," pointing out he walks in a "debilitating' way. Don Juan advises never to carry anything in his hands. Castaneda obeys but does not feel any change in his stamina or awareness as Don Juan says he should.

Castaneda is about to drink from his canteen and Don Juan tells him to take only a sip of water. He gives him some...