Silauni‘i

Authors

Jacinta Galea‘iFollow

Abstract

This poignant story follows the narrator’s friendship with Silauni‘i, the daughter of a village minister in Samoa. Silauni‘i is quiet, unconventional, and full of subtle resilience—her zig-zag pigtails, uncombed hair, and luminous smile defy rigid expectations placed on minister’s children. Together, the girls navigate school, village gossip, and the burdens of being “examples” in their community. As they study Samoan grammar at A‘oga Samoa, the story builds to a heartbreaking moment when Silauni‘i is publicly beaten after failing a quiz, a punishment that reflects the weight of expectations and the cruelty of discipline cloaked in righteousness. Through intimate details and vivid language, the story captures themes of identity, conformity, girlhood, and silent rebellion.

Recommended Citation

Galea‘i, Jacinta (2007) "Silauni‘i," Pacific Studies Journal: Vol. 30: No. 1, Article 12.
Available at: https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol30/iss1/12