The Spirit Gate

The Spirit Gate represents the Akha understanding of their heritage. It also represents a crossing from their protected village into a land of spirits. Therefore, all must take great care to not touch the gate as they pass through, or they are inviting evil spirits and bad omens into their lives. This is why San-pa is looked at so negatively when he accidentally backs into the gate. Finally, the gate represents the comfort the Akha have with their sexuality. We know this is true because the teenagers are encouraged to try each other out and find a partner for them sexually by either stealing love in the woods or using the flower room. The spirit gate‘s figures show that side of their tribe.

Tea Leaves

Tea leaves represent potential wealth to the Akha tribe. At the beginning of the novel, all Li-yan's family...