Chapter 25, Out of the Ancestral Cocoon Summary and Analysis

By 1972, the culture of the Sawi changes to reflect their faith in God. Such changes paved the way for civil government and smoothed this transition.

Richardson continues to challenge the traditions of the Sawi, however. First, he instructs them in digging a canal to ease transportation by river. Next, they begin construction of the largest building the Sawi ever constructed, which he calls Sawidome. They construct an elaborate circular, doomed building with a thatched roof. The final building easily accommodates one thousand Sawi, as they gather for their "love feasts." Inexperienced natives with rough-hewn wood and very meager tools do much of the wok. They accomplish the feat and dedicate the building in 1972.

As Richardson reads to his own children about the prodigal son, he reflects on his time so far...