IN AMADO'S NARRATIVES, EXU: THE ALL-EATING MOUTH

Abstract

This paper recognizes the so called ‘ebó’ sacrifice as a system of restitution of the power of the mythical energies coming from the worship of African orixás. Exu is the one who eats first: "the all-eating mouth". It is known that all the dynamics of the Nagô system relies on the ebó sacrifice: the ritual dedicated to the orixás. The sacrifice conducted in the worship houses is always material: food, drinks, animals, minerals, plants. These materials evoke an interpersonal, liturgical, dynamic and living relationship which moves the body and personality levels of its adepts. The blood of the animals, the offering of the fruits, the herbs, and the minerals cause the maintenance and strengthening of the axé. It is a mythical system of restitution that puts energies into action, provoking movement and Life. Neglecting ebó represents some serious penalties that interrupt the movement of axé, depreciates the bonds between gods and humans, allowing the decline of vital energy. Exu, partner of the Bahian writer Jorge Amado, is the one who charges the foul. The "immortal writer" represented his fellow, the soul of crossing streets, in several of his texts, in which Exu jokes, plays, and is fed. A fitting hail to Exu: Laroyê!