Content Warning: “Animals” references gun violence against a child.

The pearl, also known as “the Pearl of the World” (27), is the object whose discovery drives the plot forward. As the narrator explains, although pearls are created more or less by accident in nature, they are considered objects of great beauty and value, even helping to fund wars and decorate churches in Europe. The pearl that Kino finds is particularly large and beautiful, leading him to interpret its discovery as a stroke of good luck or even divine favor.

As the narrative progresses, however, the pearl brings nothing but conflict and loss. The pearl’s symbolism is complex. While Kino is searching for the pearl, he hears the “Song of the Pearl That Might Be” (22); later, he explains all he hopes to accomplish with the money he expects to receive for it. Thus, the pearl initially represents his aspirations for a better life. His plans are repeatedly frustrated, however, as others conspire to take the pearl by force or trickery. As conflicts heighten, the pearl takes on more sinister meaning, its shining surface reflecting back the greed of the characters who compete to possess it.