logo

The Forest People

Colin M. Turnbull

The Forest People

Colin M. Turnbull

  • 45-page comprehensive Study Guide
  • Chapter-by-chapter summaries and multiple sections of expert analysis
  • The ultimate resource for assignments, engaging lessons, and lively book discussions

The Forest People Chapter 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 Summary: The Song of the Forest

Turnbull catches up with the group of youths; the trip is difficult. The Pygmies do not stop; Turnbull must be careful not to trip or fall or otherwise embarrass himself. It is only after some time that he notices the Pygmies have not brought spears with them on the trek. Though the thought unnerves him as he recalls they do not fear the forest. Moreover, they are on a trip to bring back the molimo. After a time, they reach the location of the molimo. Turnbull learns how the molimo are hidden high up in trees that are marked so other BaMbuti know to leave the trees alone as they are the sleeping places of the molimo. When the trumpets are recovered, Turnbull is thoroughly disappointed. It turns out the molimo have been made with drainpipe from the village, as opposed to the traditional way of making them from wood. One of the youths even makes a crude noise with the molimo, causing the others to laugh. Turnbull thinks it sacrilege, but is told that the molimo itself is not the important thing. The important thing is one’s reverence and belief in the molimo.

blurred text

Unlock this
Study Guide!

Join SuperSummary to gain instant access to all 45 pages of this Study Guide and thousands of other learning resources.
Get Started
blurred text