Chapter 21, The Living Dead Summary and Analysis

Early in the year 1964, the Sawi announce and mourn the death of old Warahai. However, as Richardson witnesses the transport of the lifeless body, he spots faint breathing. He rushes to the body and finds a pulse. However, the Sawi tell Richardson that a sorceress, Aham, saw Warahai's spirit leave him, therefore any signs of life are from evil spirits. Richardson pleads for the chance to save Warahai. He even promises recovery, in Jesus' name, to combat the Sawi's belief in spiritism. He begs them to stop their tradition of burning Warahai with coals. However, Warahai's relatives announce their intention to build his gravehouse despite Richardson's pleas. The Sawi even express their assumption that Tuans are immortal.