House Made of Dawn

Abel is back in Walatowa a month after Martinez beat him. Snow covers the landscape, and the air is cold. Elsewhere in the village, Father Olguin has “come to terms” (108) with his role on the fringes of the community. Although he still consults the journals of Fray Nicolas, he’s at peace with the customs of the local people.

Francisco is dying. Abel, who has been drinking less since his return, watches over his grandfather and often sits and talks to him. Francisco’s “feeble” words emerge as fragments in Spanish, English, and Towan. Abel doesn’t understand everything but hears mentions of running and ceremonies. He remembers his grandfather’s story about winning a race against Mariano. The room itself is filled with memories for Abel. He was born in this room. His mother and brother died in this room. Now, Francisco is dying here too. Abel’s body aches from his injuries and his drinking. He stokes a fire and slips in and out of sleep.

Each morning at dawn, Francisco stirs and talks again. When he speaks to Abel, the narrative’s perspective switches to the dying man and his memories. In the first one, he remembers teaching his grandsons about traditional astronomy.