The Bridegroom

Located at a desert roadside camp, this story tells about a man's routine and his hopes for the future with his soon to be wife. He is a white man in charge of African workers, I think they are responsible for repairing and building roads. The white man doesn't speak the same language as the Africans, he must have Piet translate for him. Because of this language barrier, the white man is somewhat of a loner, he spends his free time in his tent and alone by his campfire. It is the night before he is to return to his hometown, Francistown, to marry his fiance. The man's last night in camp seems to be joyous and special compared to how the man described his usual routine. The men play music and there is laughter and talking. The campfires are warm and welcoming, and dinner is a special dish that everyone really likes. I think the significance of all of the nights events reflect the joy of the man who is very excited about getting married. There is promise in the atmosphere that the rest of his life with his wife is going to be as comfortable and happy as that night.