“…the physical structure of the Songhay village … consists of series of open spaces, each encircled by a cluster of thatched houses, which are interconnected by a labyrinth of lanes and narrow paths … as in many African societies, the Songhay apply metaphors of pathways to social relationships. For example, the reason for giving a gift to an in-law may be expressed as: “So that the path between us does not die”.”