Open Land
The Beggar asks Makuri if he can have even the poor land of the swamp for his own in order to make it harvest crops for himself. Ironically, Makuri won't allow him to touch the land that the villagers believe is worthless as it represents land that belong to the Serpent of the Swamp, their deity.
Truth
Igwezu has appeared to have revealed that Kadiye is a corrupt priest who steals from the villagers. Ironically, he will be hunted by the people of the swamp for touching the priest rather than them getting to the truth of Kadiye's corruption.
Wealth
Igwezu has gone into the city with his wife in order to make wealth for himself and his family. Ironically, by doing so, he loses every penny he has, even going into debt to his brother who also takes his wife for his own.
Shave
Kadiye has come to Makuri's for a shave, but wants Igwezu to do it as the old man's hands shake. Ironically, Igwezu is out to prove the priest is corrupt and has stolen his sacrifices. Thus, the knife in Igwezu's hands means that Kadiye has unknowingly delivered himself into the potential of death.
Son's Death
Alu believes that her son is dead as he has been gone for many years and no one has heard from him. Ironically, he is not dead but alive and wealthy. However, even more ironically, he has taken Igwezu's wife for his own and sends no money to his family. Thus, the death that she feels for her son is a metaphorical death of his soul.
