- The first chapter sets the scene: the town of Ixopo lies in the valley of the Umzimkulu River as it flows out of the Drakensberg mountain range. (So, Ixopo is in the northeastern corner of South Africa.)
- The earth of this river valley is rich, and supports its residents. But now, the hills are drying out from overgrazing and overpopulation.
- The men and the young people have left this valley behind, and the soil is too barren to support its people any longer.