How we cite our quotes: (Poem.Paragraph)
Quote #10
Tayo's heart beat fast; he could see Josiah's vision emerging, he could see the story taking form in bone and muscle. (XXV.106)
Josiah's new breed of cattle is a transformation Tayo can see taking shape before his eyes. The cattle symbolize the change that's necessary to keep life going. (See our discussion of the cattle in "Symbols, Imagery, Allegory.") Those cows sure are some powerful creatures in this novel—they almost deserve their own special section in this here analysis.
Quote #11
A transition was about to be completed: the sun was crossing the zenith to a winter place in the sky, a place where prayers of long winter nights would call out the long summer days of new growth. Tonight the old priests would be praying for the force to continue the relentless motion of the stars. (XXV.224)
This transitional moment connects Tayo's ceremony to nature and the traditional rituals of the Laguna community; it's important for all three.