The Pearl

“And, as with all retold tales that are in people’s hearts, there are only good and bad things and black and white things and good and evil things and no in-between anywhere.”

In the prologue, the narrator indicates that the story of the pearl features stark differences between good and evil rather than ambiguous moral distinctions. This is due in part to the story’s presentation of itself as folklore, which often entails exaggeration for dramatic effect. By showing good and evil as a clear dichotomy, the narrative makes its thematic points in a clearer fashion.

“If this story is a parable, perhaps everyone takes his own meaning from it and reads his own life into it.”

The narrator invites readers to view the tale of the pearl as a parable, which is a story that carries a symbolic message or meaning. As this passage suggests, interpretations may vary from reader to reader. However, the implication is that regardless of the story’s specific historical setting, it carries themes universal to human experience.

“It was a morning like other mornings and yet perfect among mornings.”

The story opens on a typical morning as Kino and Juana prepare for the day ahead. At this point, Kino and Juana live in a state of happiness but also of innocence or naiveté since they fail to fully value their simple lifestyle. They gain experience through the challenges associated with