Foreignness and the Other Quotes in Nation

Ataba illustrates the difference between the cannibalistic Raiders and so-called civilized people: there isn't one. Each group makes others a part of themselves, and we're not sure which is ickier. (Well, actually, the cooking-and-eating one is. But still. The metaphor works: assimilation is another way of destroying people.)

Daphne makes a good point to Foxlip, who practically views Mau's people as inhuman. Think about all the people who put Daphne in danger during the story. Were they islanders, or Europeans?

The final confrontation between Mau and First Mate Cox is the ultimate battle between "civilization" (guns) and "nature" (water). Guess what wins?