Describe the negative and positive traditions of the maa in chapter 1

Moving back to Nasila reveals both similarities and differences between the Kaelos and their relatives in Nasila. Unlike Kaelo's brother Simiren, Ole Kaelo and Mama Milanoi break with tradition by moving away and by choosing a monogamous marriage. Yet despite their differences, Kaelo and Simiren’s relationship is one defined by its strength and mutual respect.

The lifestyle choices of the Kaelo family and their decision not to circumcise their daughters, however, become an issue when Resian and Taiyo encounter the stranger while exploring Nasila. The stranger’s remark reflects the town’s rigid expectations for women. Namely, the expectation that women be chaste, deferential, circumcised, and that they become homemakers.

It is also important to note that Kaelo’s relationship with his daughters is asymmetrical. He loves his firstborn daughter, Taiyo, unconditionally, but rejects Resian for being born a girl and robbing him of a male heir and successor. The tense relationship between Resian and her father is largely defined by Resian’s identity and the expectations for how Nasila men and women ought to behave.