Magic

The magic of Elena's world is a strange mixture of Catholic, Jesuit, Ohlone and commune thought and culture along with strong forces of nature, especially irresistible human nature that all the characters succumb to even as they try desperately to climb out of the pits of misery into the heights of perfection.

Elena's magic is in using plants for healing as her mother taught her in early childhood. She also communicates telepathically with animals but does not tell anyone else about it.

She believes that through prayer and supplication she can affect weather. She becomes frustrated with Diego when he will not aid her in doing this.

Her favorite place for prayer is on the beach, facing the ocean with the surf at her bare feet and the wind on her face. For her, the ocean is a reminder of God's power and ability to do anything.

She believes that by understanding anything she can exert forces to control it. She regrets not understanding Ramon Emmanuel earlier in life.

The forest is portrayed as a dark and sinister place but when she ventures in alone she finds the greatest beauty and true essence of magic.