The Bone People

Joe comes to the tower for a visit, intending to propose marriage. Instead of an outright rejection, the artist shows him some of her work and confides that she does not feel passionate for anything but her art. Kerewin further explains that she has never felt sexual desire for anyone and dislikes physical touch. Joe attempts to understand and asks if she has been hurt or mistreated by someone, but Kerewin tells him she has always been that way. Her one true love is art. Joe, then, points out that that is a Maori trait: When creating art, it is believed that one should not engage in sex so as not to waste energy.

A few days later, Joe calls to invite Kerewin out to the pub to celebrate his cousin Piri’s reunion with his wife. Kerewin is reluctant at first, as she is in a bad mood, but Joe convinces her to come out.

While at the pub, Piri’s wife, Lynn, asks about their holiday, and it becomes apparent to Kerewin that everyone knows about Simon’s abuse but are not addressing the issue. Lynn explains that they all feel sorry for Joe and do not want to get him in trouble with the authorities.