Adam I think that is a really good point- this story almost has the
tone of a fable or story with a moral. In fact, when I was first
reading the story I was reminded of the three little pigs as the
elephant took shelter in the man's hut- just like each of the pigs
take shelter in the other one's stronger house. Kenyatta is clearly
sending a message to the African people by writing this tale, and
although he may be saying that you must stand up for yourselves
against oppressive forces, there is another less heroic point being
made as well. The man in this jungle used violence in the end, and
completely kills off all the power forces that stood in his way. It
is frustrating to me that the man is completely fine with this as
well, simply remarking that "peace is costly, but it's worth the
expense." I know he tried to negotiate with the leaders before during
the meetings, but I feel like this story is ultimately sending a
message of violence is the answer to everything.