Nats Can Be Nasty and Nice--Chapter Seven

In the previous chapter, we were introduced to Nats. They are described as spirits of nature, but to me they sound more like ghosts of dead people. They are believed in by all Burmese people regardless of their religion or tribe. Nats are everywhere, and they are thought to have a direct influence on daily life whether one believes in them or not. They can be helpful or harmful depending on how they are shown respect and courtesy and bribed with gifts. Bibi is shocked to learn that Walter thinks she may be a Nat!

The concept of Nats and their influence is further explored in Chapter 7. Everything that happens is in some way related to "seeing" or believing in Nats and their power.

We're halfway through the book, and still the group has not disappeared as we were told they would in the preface. I'm guessing that Burmese superstitions and myths will affect the fate of the tourists as the story continues. Let's see what happens next...