Warriors of the drum

Encountering the Patapon, an eyewitness journal.

Day Three
Three days into our trek we discovered our first signs of the reclusive Patapon tribe. In a clearing, a tall monolith of carved stone overlooked the hunters' trail we had been following. Expertly carved, its simple lines, ring-like carvings and smooth surface are reminiscent of the Olmec tradition.

Our tracker pointed out recent movement in the clearing, the number of prints suggesting a sizable gathering. As well as a territorial marker, the stone's proximity to a hunters' trail suggests its use as a ritualised part of their expeditions.

Day Five
We made contact with a Patapon hunting party today. Naturally they were wary of our presence. We shared some of our food, swapping rations for several of the long legged birds they had caught.

The Patapon use both the spear and short bow while foraging, weapons ideally suited for their habitat. They differentiate between the two, calling those armed with spears Yaripon and those armed with bows Yumipon.

Day Twelve
As honoured guests we entered the Patapon village. It was immediately evident that our first observations needed to be rethought. They appear to have a very structured society with tribe members carrying out highly specialised tasks. During our visit we met a few members of a warrior elite comprised of Tatepon foot soldiers and mounted Kibapon cavalry.

This emphasis on specialising in particular skills has led to the veneration of their ancestors amongst the Patapon. Particularly skilled individuals from each of the classes seem to have acquired legendary status. During the feast laid on for us, we watched a dance celebrating Gekolos, a fierce fighter who was unafraid of fire.

Afterwards the village Elders allowed us to observe one of their rituals. We witnessed food set aside from the feast being offered up at the base of a great tree. It seems the Patapon worship a single almighty god alongside venerating their ancestors. The possessions of the deceased, particularly the elaborate headdresses, a symbol of status among the Patapon, are also collected and reverentially displayed around this great tree.

Speaking by gesture with the elders, it appears that the majority of their warriors had already left the village on a quest, journeying far and wide to find a sacred drum.

Day Fourteen
In the last couple of days a new sense of urgency has come over the tribe. A mysterious drumming, the source of which we have been unable to locate, has started...

PATA, PATA, PATA, PON

Delighted, the Patapon have started preparing for a long journey. When questioned about the source of the drumming they grin and point to the sky. This is where their almighty god resides, high above their lands.

Day Sixteen
For days now we have heard the drums and the song of the Patapon. It is hypnotic and unrelenting...

PATA, PATA, PATA, PON
PATA, PATA, PATA, PON

The last of the hunting parties has returned with provisions and their preparation is almost over. Soon they will begin to follow the drums...

PATA, PATA, PATA, PON
PATA, PATA, PATA, PON
PATA, PATA, PATA, PON