Nathan Prices Analysis

In 1959 a Georgia Baptist family led by Nathan Price moves to the Congo. In this new land the American family faces the wild and primal nature of the Congo in which they arrogantly attempt to domesticate the natives through God and hold unto their western ways. As the Prices slowly adjust to Kilanga life they make few friends and several enemies, mostly due to the stubbornness of the father. As the women of the story develop we begin to see more of the outside world being subjugated and how their self-centered issues pale in comparison to the issues faced by the Congolese people. The western arrogance of the family leads to traumatic death in which everyone gives the impression of guilt and regret because they all feel a responsibility for
the loss of life within their family. After years of dwelling on their own mistakes they come to terms with themselves and the Congo.