This chapter features the oral nature of the myths and
fables that are such a part of Ibo tribal life. It begins with Ekwefi telling Ezinma a
fable about the Tortoise. During an intense famine, the birds were given permission to
feed in the sky. Starving himself, Tortoise, who was famed for his skill with words,
managed to persuade the birds to take him with them. He tricks the birds, and receives
the best food because of his cleverness. However, the birds were very angry at how they
had been deceived, and left him in the sky. Tortoise asks Parrot to tell his wife to
surround his home with soft objects so he can jump down. However, Parrot tells his wife
the opposite. Tortoise jumps down from the sky and breaks his shell into many pieces. A
medicine man had to put it together again which is why he has a bumpy
shell.
Ekwefi and Ezinma hear the distinctive voice of
Chielo, the tribal priestess. She declares that Agbala, the god she serves, wants to
meet with Ezinma in the caves. Ezinma is carried by Chielo and Ekwefi follows. Both are
terrified in the dark. Finally, Chielo enters the cave and Ekwefi is left alone outside,
waiting. She sees Okonkwo and remembers how she came to marry Okonkwo. Having
experienced a very disturbing journey, she is now very pleased for his
presence.
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