The Pearl ( Event )

26. An event that interest you in the novel and the reason why you find the event interesting

The novel 'The Pearl' written by John Steinbeck is filled with interesting events. An event which I find interesting is Kino and his family's escapee adventure from the trackers on the mountain.

As Kino started to realise the trackers would find his trail, he already given up hope. This is shown when he says 'Perhaps I should let them take me'(page 72). However, Juana is certain that the trackers will not let Kino go alive. She,on the other hand, encouraged Kino to keep alive for Coyotito's sake. This event interested me as I see a great drop of determination in Kino, which he fully possess before.

Then, they head to the mountain to escape. Along the tiring journey, Kino requested Juana to hide with Coyotito as he mislead the trackers as it is the only safe way for her and the baby. However, Juana is very determined to stay with Kino through thick and thin. It is shown in the phrase 'He looked then for weakness in her face, for fear or irresolution, and there was none'(pg 75). For that, I am amazed of how loyal a wife can be towards her husband.

They then come to a cave to hide. Kino hid Juana and Coyotito and made plans to kill the trackers in that cave when they arrive. Kino asked Juana to head for Loreta with Coyotito if he is killed. I believe it is the ultimate sacrifice a man can make for his family by sacrificing his life to ensure their safety. Another exiting event here is when the trackers heard Coyotito's cry. It gave me quite a scare as the family's life could be endangered. Luckily, the trackers had mistaken it as a coyote's cry. In the cave, Kino moved precisely to kill the hunters, he 'was like a terrible machine'(pg 84). He killed the first tracker on he rifle by striking 'the head of the seated man like a melon.'pg 85). He also killed the other two trackers with a gun. Sadly, he accidentally gun-shooted Coyotito while attempting to kill the other two trackers. This incident is truly a great shock as it is very unexpected.

This event reflects the irony of the whole story as the finding of the pearl which initially was suppose to save Coyotito ends up causing his death. This is indeed a great turn in the story and makes the novel more interesting to read.

By : EsThEr TaN