# Between Fire and Water explained — In Search of the Castaways

> Chapter companion for In Search of the Castaways by Jules Verne.

## What happens

As night falls, the group takes refuge in an ombu tree surrounded by floodwaters. A violent thunderstorm erupts, with lightning, rain, and a waterspout threatening their safety. The tree is set ablaze by lightning, and alligators attack, but the group survives as the tree is torn loose and floats away.

## Themes in this chapter

### Courage and Sacrifice

The group faces the storm and alligator attack with bravery, tying themselves to branches and fighting off threats to survive.

### Perseverance and Hope

Despite the terrifying storm and flood, the group remains determined, taking refuge in the tree and continuing to endure the elements.

## Character check-ins

### Jacques Paganel

Tells a story that is applauded but convinces no one; later identifies phosphorescent insects and discusses the storm with enthusiasm.

### Lord Glenarvan

Climbs to the observatory with Paganel and Robert, expresses concern about the storm, and gives instructions for the night.

### Robert Grant

Joins Glenarvan and Paganel in the observatory; shows no fear of thunder.

### Major MacNabb

Present during the storm; his calm countenance is noted in the lightning flashes.

### Mulready

Kills an alligator with a large brand after it crawls onto the tree roots.

## Key lines

> Jacques Paganel’s story had a very great success. He was greatly applauded, but each retained his own opinion, and the geographer obtained the result common to most discussions—of convincing nobody.

Paganel's story was well-received, but it failed to change anyone's mind.

_Highlights Paganel's eloquence and the stubbornness of his audience._

> The tree now, loosened from its moorings, floated onward under the combined impulses of wind and current.

The ombu tree was torn free and began drifting with the wind and water.

_Describes the climax of the storm's destruction and the group's precarious situation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/in_search_of_the_castaways_se/chapters/xxv-between-fire-and-water
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/in_search_of_the_castaways_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/in_search_of_the_castaways_se/chapters