A Strange Manuscript Found in a Copper Cylinder · Chapter
XXI: The Flying Monster explained
The narrator learns from Layelah about the athaleb, a tame flying monster used for travel, and considers using it to escape with Almah.
What happens
The narrator learns from Layelah about the athaleb, a tame flying monster used for travel, and considers using it to escape with Almah. Layelah reveals her love for the narrator and hatred for Almah, while the Kohen Gadol courts Almah. The narrator resolves to either escape with both women or stay and face death with Almah.
Themes in this chapter
Inverted Social Order
The Kosekin value death over life, and paupers are honored while the wealthy are pitied, as explained by Layelah.
Love and Selflessness
The narrator's willingness to stay and die with Almah rather than escape alone demonstrates selfless love.
Colonial Exploration and Otherness
The narrator's encounter with the athaleb and the strange customs of the Kosekin highlight themes of exploration and cultural difference.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Plans escape using the athaleb, torn between love for Almah and Layelah's offer.
- Layelah
Shows the narrator the athaleb, confesses love for him and hatred for Almah, offers to help him escape.
- Almah
Unaware of Layelah's scheme; courted by the Kohen Gadol, but remains faithful to the narrator.
- The Kohen
Devotes himself to Almah, cooperating with Layelah's plan.
Key passages
““But if I did escape, would they not pursue me?” “Certainly not.””
The narrator asks if the Kosekin would chase him if he fled, and Layelah assures him they would not.
Highlights the inverted values of the Kosekin, who do not prevent escape.
““You!” said she, with a sweet smile.”
When asked what she wants, Layelah replies that she wants the narrator.
Reveals Layelah's romantic interest in the narrator.
““Oh no,” said Layelah; “it swallows its victuals whole.””
Layelah reassures the narrator that the athaleb won't bite, but it swallows food whole.
Adds to the monstrous yet tame nature of the athaleb.