La Paz
The rich Spanish Mexicans live in the town: La Paz. They are mostly people who have good jobs, like doctor. The servants are the Native Mexicans. The houses are stately, modern with brick plaster walls- this comparison is made to show the evident differences between the colonialist Spanish Mexicans and the Native.
The village
The story is set in a small fishing village on the right hand side of the town La Paz. The area is rural and no proper facilities. They are Native Mexicans who earn their livelihood as fishermen as well as pearl divers. Kino and his family live in a humble and plain brush house by the beach. The village is very small as news spreads as fast as wild fire. This can best be seen when Coyotito is stung by the scorpion and when Kino found the pearl.
The sea
The source of livelihood for the villagers and yet it is a dangerous place. It is also the source of hope and dream for the fishermen as well the pearl divers. In addition, it represents the harsh way of life of the villagers. The colour of the sea changes as the mood and values of the story progress. Furthermore, the sea symbolizes the place of origin. When Kino throws the pearl back to the sea it represents Kino’s return to his hometown, to his original state of mind.
The desert
The area is described as a waterless land. It is seen as being hostile and barren. Kino and his family have to travel through the desert in order to reach Loreto in the North. The place is filled with shadowy rocks that represent the obstacle Kino has to overcome.
The watering hole
This is the place where life-giving water is found. Ironically, this is the same place where animals are killed by the predators. Here, Kino and his family rest and quench their thirst. Unfortunately this is the very same spot the trackers come to rest as well. Kino kills the three trackers in cold blood and he fights savagely just to protect the family.
