Chapter 6 Summary

Itelo informs Henderson that as wresting champion of the village, he must wrestle any new arrival. Henderson does not want to wrestle, and in the first round submits to Itelo and allows him to push his face into the dirt. Henderson feels like sadness in his life has made him slow and heavy, and realizes he has lost Itelo's respect. For these reasons, Henderson removes his shirt and wrestles Itelo again, this time throwing him to the ground twice. When Itelo strikes him, Henderson is struck again by sudden words. This time: "I do remember well the hour which burst my spirit's sleep" (67). Itelo, defeated, puts dust on his head, and makes Henderson place his foot on top of his head. Henderson feels depressed because he could never make himself lose a contest, even against his own children. However, Itelo then hugs Henderson...