Cusi’s journey through the Andes reflects the tension between holding on to ancient Incan traditions and adapting to a world forever changed by conquest.

The further Cusi travels, the more he is confronted with the reality that the world has largely moved on from the traditions he has known. His confusion is palpable when he first encounters Spanish-speaking people, realizing, “These are Spanish people. They are not Indian. Their words are Spanish words, not Indian” (51). This moment illustrates the fragmentation of identity caused by colonization, as Cusi understands that he exists in a world where the Incan language and customs are no longer dominant. The people and places he encounters represent a shift away from the Incan world, suggesting that cultural preservation is even more difficult in a world that no longer values these traditions. The tension between the Incan world and the modern, Spanish-influenced society reflects the broader historical reality of cultural erasure and the struggle to maintain Indigenous traditions in the face of colonialism.

Despite these challenges, Secret of the Andes offers a hopeful message about the resilience of cultural heritage. The notion of being a “Keeper” reflects the idea that heritage is actively preserved by those who recognize its value, rather than passively surviving.