Part 1: Chapter 4 Summary and Analysis

Matus seldom speaks openly about Mescalito, but creates a clear anthropomorphic image of a male protector and teacher. On Dec. 24, 1961, he observes that "he" is "gentle, like a baby." Until they have an ally, many keep Mescalito in a bag fastened around their arm or neck in order to ward off evil. Mescalito teaches how to live properly, showing things and telling "what is what." On Jan. 10, 1962, Castaneda asks what one sees when Mescalito takes him; but Matus refuses to answer this question, inappropriate to "ordinary conversations." He warns that Mescalito is horrible toward those who make fun of him, but agrees to make allowances for this non-Indian. Matus only confirms there is another world to which Mescalito takes people; but it is not the Christian heaven and he is not the Christian God nor one of the gods...