Quizzer Part 2

Why is Troost so infatuated with the Islands beginnings and the history of the people/culture?

Troost at this point does not know that he wants to write a book. He is merely trying to occupy his time on the island while his wife toils away at her job. I think he wants to learn more about the people around him and how they came to be, so he himself can better relate to what they are. I’m not saying as an I-Matang he will ever be part of the glorious I-Kiribati tribe, but I think he’s trying to relate to the local people in as many ways as he can, so he doesn’t feel like an outsider looking in.

In Chapter 6, Troost emphasizes his difficulties with writing his book. Why is he having such a difficult time writing?

At this point I don’t think Troost has any idea what he’s doing. I think he’s more or less writing the book to occupy himself, instead of writing the book for the purpose of educating those from the outside world on the culture in the South Pacific. I think at this point in time in Troost’s tenure on the island a journal or logbook would be more appropriate, not a novel.

Why does Troost play off the idea of “The Great Beer Crisis” as an island-wide chaotic experience?

The whole island city of Tarawa seemingly runs on beer consumption. When the people have a lack of beer, they seem to have a lack of direction. We call this alcoholism. Of course Troost himself developed a mild liking for the taste of the Australian ale, and he too has a moderate breakdown when he can’t get his hands on a six-pack. Also labeling the situation as “A Great Crisis” doesn’t bode well for any critics trying to tell you that the people of this village aren’t addicted to alcohol.

In chapter 8 Troost buys a supply of water from the local dealer. Why is this technique of buying and selling not beneficial to the people who need water the most?

Troost had to pay fifteen dollars to fill up his entire tank of drinking water. Fifteen dollars American can also buy about 30 two foot long fish in Tarawa. Most of the people probably don’t have that kind of money to spend on the items necessary to survive. All the infectious diseases are a sign that the people are scraping by consuming whatever they possibly can, and maybe the water should be sold for less. I understand that it’s supply and demand, but if all the people die of thirst, there’s nobody left to sell water to. I guess the dealers are just picking their poison.