Rite of MeetingRite of Meeting is, at the start, a very dry and imposing story. The reader receives the same information repeatedly, as if it was not received the first time. This redundancy is an insult to the reader. For example, in the first line of the story, the narrator tells the reader that “In the third week of his fast, Singing-Owl found the white man” (258). This information is given very clearly, but later the narrator repeats himself, saying, “A dog was white men” (259). There is no need for the narrator to remind the reader of this. This “spoon-feeding” is insulting to the reader. The narration was also rather dry. There is little description. The story is conveyed to the reader without any details and obviously the story is simply being reported. The third-person omniscient narration is also confusing at times. The narration sometimes switches from third person to first without any explanation. For example, when Singing-Owl suffers from dehydration, fatigue, and hunger, the narrator reports the character's condition. Suddenly the next line says: “Water.” We must have water” (258). We don't know who is saying this. Unsurprisingly, Bates uses this strange tactic again to demonstrate Singing-Owl's exhaustion. The narrator comments on Singing-Owl's declining condition, then says, "Maybe I'm tired." Alright. I am tired” (261). Once again, the reader does not know who is speaking. This intentional alteration of the narrative only deprives the story of its unity. However, there is a manipulation of the characters which is interesting. Smallpox is beautifully characterized. Bringing an illness to life brings to life a story that, from the beginning, drags on without such animation. Smallpox mocks our "hero", Singing-Owl. This torment by a naturally inanimate character saturates the story with fantasy and mysticism. The conclusion of the story unfortunately leaves the reader with the same feeling of disappointment that it began with. Singing-Owl, rather than becoming a hero, becomes a puppet that Smallpox must control. Song - Owl breaks down and agrees to bring smallpox back to the tribe. Although Singing-Owl does not completely understand the methods of smallpox, he understands its negative repercussions. However, Singing-Owl grants Variole's wish. This event is disappointing for the reader and degrades the main character. Song - Owl gains some redemption by trying to infect his enemies, but is not effective and will die a disgraced man..