The power of the written word could be debated. It is long-lasting, certainly, but coming from a world where most people are illiterate, he also knows that it can be unreachable. Once Pitch has finished speaking, Orcelito offers his counter. “The written word does have power but… I believe songs and oral storytelling have more. There is great power and breadth in a performance; hearing the inflections and the rise and fall of the verses… one voice can silence or move a crowd.”

And he does not wish to share his fears, in any form. But enough of that; he’s more curious about the why of this conversation. One word catches his attention: power.

“May I ask what your particular interest in these stories is?” It may be nothing, of course. This man is allowed to like whatever literature he pleases, and far be it from Orcelito to deny him a passing fancy. But it may not be… Orcelito has known those who liked fear and horror, or rather, the power they gained from inflicting it on others. Those people were more frightening than their subject matter. While Orcelito appreciates a good piece of literature or well-written verse, he cannot condone taking delight from the suffering of others. He doesn’t think Pitch is the sort to torment others for entertainment and control… but he can't be certain.