This chapter focuses on Man-Man, a resident of Miguel Street labeled as mad by the community—though the narrator questions this claim. Man-Man does not appear mad, nor does he display irrational behavior or conversational quirks.

Even still, Man-Man is known for his odd habits, like consistently participating in elections despite receiving just three votes. Man-Man dedicates his days to meticulously writing single words on the pavement, often fixating on a single letter. He speaks with an impeccable English accent, and his passion for the written word consumes him, intriguing the narrator.

Man-man's vengeful streak becomes evident when a local café owner provokes him, leading to him to become disruptive. He leaves the café doors open and soils the furniture, showcasing his vindictive spirit:

Hat said, ‘One thing you must never do is trouble Man-Man. He remember everything.’

Additionally, Man-Man shares a unique connection with his dog, which mirrors his reserved and peculiar demeanor. He does not work, instead having his dog soil the sheets people are currently drying with the intention of selling them once they throw them out. People in the neighborhood have mixed feelings about him; some admire his audacity while others approach him cautiously.

Later in the story, Man-Man goes through a profound transformation, embracing religion and declaring himself the “new Messiah” of Miguel Street. He claims to have had a divine encounter, predicting his own crucifixion and amassing followers with great expectations.

‘Is about Man-Man. He say he going to be crucified one of these days.’

‘Nobody go touch him,’ Edward said. ‘Everybody fraid of him now.’

Hat explained. ‘No, it ain’t that. He going to crucify hisself. One of these Fridays he going to Blue Basin and tie hisself to a cross and let people stone him.’

A crowd gathers at the Blue Basin waterfall for the self-crucifixion. Man-Man carries the cross to the Basin, and the crowd starts throwing stones. Soon after, he begs to be taken down from the cross, leaving everyone in shock.

Man-Man's sudden outburst leads him to be arrested by the police, and he is placed under observation. The story concludes with his institutionalization, marking the end of his eccentric reign over Miguel Street.

Bizarre and unexpected, Man-Man’s story highlights the complexity of madness and challenges preconceived notions about unconventional individuals. From an eccentric figure to a messianic preacher, Man-Man’s many forms indicate the unpredictable and multifaceted nature of human behavior. Through his strange mannerisms, Naipaul explores the naivety of the masses. Even when Man-Man "regains his senses" in the end, the crowds do not follow suit. They remain easily swayed and prone to believing in fantasies, a commentary on the gullibility of the public to leaders who manipulate public spectacle for their own ends.