Chapter 5: The Requirements of Intent (Breaking the Mirror of Self-Reflection) Summary and Analysis

Don Juan and Carlos spend the night in the spot where he remembered his experience in Guaymas. That night, don Juan helps Carlos reach new assemblage point positions. But the next day, Carlos cannot remember what happened. Don Juan refused to tell Carlos what happened, saying only that he would one day remember. After discussing the geographical rock formations that help to move assemblage points, don Juan tells Carlos that the nagual aims to shatter the mirror of self-reflection. They argue about whether one can learn on one's own to move the assemblage point but do not resolve matters. Don Juan insists that all movements of the assemblage point require the spirit. The two discuss Carlos's mask. Carlos maintains that he is still...