A Long Walk To Water Chapter 9

Water Woes and Walking Shows

Okay, let's talk A Long Walk to Water, specifically Chapter 9. Remember that chapter? It's the one where Salva keeps walking. And walking. And... you guessed it... walking.

Now, don't get me wrong, I admire Salva's resilience. Seriously, the guy is a walking, talking testament to perseverance. But after nine chapters of walking, even I start to feel like I need a comfy chair and a large glass of iced tea.

Anyone else secretly wish the book would just fast forward a bit? Maybe a "Salva hits the turbo button and teleports" kind of scene? Just me?

The Power of a Pebble... or Not?

They find water! Hooray! But then, like, instantly, someone loses a shoe. I swear, if I were Salva, I'd start carrying a spare shoe for everyone. A "sole survivor" kit, if you will.

And that rock in his shoe? I get it, rocks are annoying. But at this point, after traversing half of Africa barefoot, a little pebble seems almost... quaint.

It's like complaining about a papercut after surviving a shark attack. Unpopular opinion: just shake it out, Salva! You’ve got bigger fish (or perhaps, crocodiles) to fry!

Uncle's Gone Rogue (Again)

Then there's Uncle. He's a bit of a mixed bag, isn't he? Sometimes he's all, "Salva, my boy, you're my responsibility." Other times, he’s all, "Oops, gotta shoot this antelope!"

He keeps Salva alive. That's undeniable. But does anyone else think he’s a little... unpredictable? Like a caffeinated squirrel piloting a crop duster?

Okay, maybe that's a bit harsh. But seriously, Uncle's mood swings are wilder than the African savanna.

Nuer Troubles (Are we Surprised?)

Of course, there’s that encounter with the Nuer tribe. Surprise, surprise, it's not exactly a welcome wagon. Because why would anything be easy for Salva?

It is a good way to show how important culture differences are though. You just have to be careful when encountering someone different from you.

At this point, I'm convinced Salva is secretly cursed. Maybe he accidentally angered a particularly grumpy water spirit. Or perhaps he simply has incredibly bad luck.

Walking: A Metaphor, or Just... Walking?

I know, I know. The walking is a metaphor! It represents perseverance! It symbolizes the long and arduous journey of life! But honestly, sometimes it just feels like... walking.

Is it wrong to want a little less symbolism and a little more plot? Perhaps a well-placed cheetah chase? Or maybe a spontaneous rain of chocolate? Just brainstorming here.

Look, Salva is a true inspiration. His story is powerful and important. But even heroes need a break, right? And so do readers. Maybe a very short break.

So, here's to Salva, the ultimate long-distance walker. May his future journeys involve significantly less walking and a whole lot more happiness. And shoes that fit properly, obviously.

And a special shout-out to the rock in his shoe. You were a formidable foe, pebble. But Salva is tougher. Even if he complained just a *little* bit.