Bamboo People

The next morning, the boys receive uniforms and food, their first meal since their conscription. The captain arrives, carrying a bamboo stick and surrounded by cronies. As soldiers, they’ll receive a salary, which will support Mother and Tai’s family. The captain gives a propaganda speech, blaming the tribal groups—including the Christian Karenni—for Burma’s civil unrest. Chiko mentally rejects this, remembering Father’s Karenni friend. Many less educated boys believe the captain. Tai remains bored, irritating the captain. He punishes Tai, ordering a soldier to beat him. However Tai dodges the blow and fakes pain to avoid the beating. Chiko notices the farce.

A delivery truck arrives; the captain leaves. The boys receive their first task: unloading the materials from the truck. Chiko and Tai must move cement blocks, difficult for Chiko’s bookworm build. Tai creates slings out of cloth and bamboo, which makes the work more efficient. He helps Chiko and other boys make some as well. They finish early, earning the sergeant’s approval. Chiko learns “not to judge people [especially Tai] by their appearance” (53).