Chapter 10 - Danbala Summary and Analysis

In this chapter we are introduced to the Vodou spirit known as Danbala. The prefix of the word Danbala is Da, meaning snake-like, or more accurately, the coiling, sinuous movement of life. The spirit Papa Danbala is very old, so when he "mounts" his horse, or manbo, in the possession-performance, he utters sounds only and does not speak. He represents the idea that Haitians must connect to their lost African roots, while shedding their skin and recreating themselves as needed. He operates from the territory of blood and memory, asking the questions; who am I? And who are we? In the year 1981, both Maggie and Alourdes are confronted with the question; who are my people? It is clear that both of these women descend from a line of women who are survivors, who nurture their families and...