If Sai Baba makes the storyteller a 'mere pretext' and takes over the narration, does this imply that the author of the Satcharitra had no agency and was just transcribing a divine dictation?

Chapter 36 suggests a more nuanced process than a simple divine dictation. It states, 'Enough of this "I-ness" (ego) of the speaker; the playful Sai himself takes over and makes his own qualities heard by his devotees through someone.' The text also mentions that Sai makes the 'listener and speaker a mere pretext' to fulfill devotees' desires. This is framed as a surrender of ego, allowing divine inspiration to flow through the author. It highlights a collaborative or channeling process where Sai's will is enacted, rather than implying the author becomes a mindless puppet. As Chapter 36 explains, this is the mechanism by which Sai ensures his beloved stories are remembered and shared for the spiritual welfare of all.