009. THE FERRYMAN

Summary

• Siddhartha goes to visit Kamaswami, a rich merchant, at his house, with the intention of serving him.
• Kamaswami questions Siddhartha about his background. He learns that Siddhartha was a Brahmin, then a Samana, and chose to be without possessions voluntarily.
• Kamaswami wonders what Siddhartha hope to give and receive in the business. Siddhartha states he can think, wait, and fast. He explains fasting helps him to stay patient when hungry, which Kamaswami finds impressive.
• After testing Siddhartha's literacy and penmanship, Kamaswami invites him to live in his house and become a part of his trade. Siddhartha accepts and begins to learn the ropes of business.
• Siddhartha applies the qualities he learnt as a Samana to aid his business dealings - patience, equanimity and deep understanding.
• Siddhartha starts taking on more responsibilities, discussing important matters with Kamaswami. He even begins to outperform in some aspects of business.
• Kamaswami and a friend agree to give Siddhartha a third of the profits and losses, in a bid to coax more passion into his business dealings.
• Despite this offer, Siddhartha remains detached from business, treating it as a simple game. He shows no concern for the risk of loss.
• Even when he fails in a business deal, Siddhartha turns it into an opportunity to understand and connect with people. He appreciates these shared human experiences more than the business itself.
• Kamaswami is often frustrated with Siddhartha's nonchalant approach. Siddhartha, however, insists that his detachment is the reason for his success.
• Siddhartha still identifies as a Samana, often feeling alienated due to his different views on life. He views most people as 'childlike' or 'animal-like', which enchants him but also invokes sympathy in him.
• Despite immersing himself in business and relating with people for leisure, Siddhartha feels his true life is going untouched. His inner peace and essence remains isolated from his everyday pursuits.
• He finds connection and shared learning in his relationship with Kamala, a courtesan, whom he sees as similar to himself - detached yet passionate.
• Kamala praises Siddhartha's proficiency in the art of love, and wishes to bear his child when older. However, she also acknowledges that neither of them can truly love because they're too invested in mastering the craft of love.