In "Fathers and Crows" by William T. Vollmann, the protagonist grapples with the challenge of communicating complex ideas about morality and spirituality to those who lack the nuanced understanding of concepts like goodness and strength. The indigenous people, referred to as 'Savages', express their immediate needs for sustenance and healing, revealing a stark disconnect between their urgent desires and the deeper philosophical meanings behind the rituals and beliefs being presented to them.
The passage illustrates their fear and misunderstanding of Christian practices, particularly the concept of consuming consecrated wine as the blood of Jesus. When told that Jesus, the Son of God, became man and sacrificed himself, the indigenous people's reaction is one of fear and confusion, as they struggle to comprehend the significance behind the rites associated with this faith. Their whispered conversations and terrified expressions highlight a cultural clash, underscoring the broader themes of misunderstanding and the complexities of faith.