Why The Tortoise Went To A Talking Market!: Delving into a 16th Century Nigerian Folktale

The rich tapestry of Nigerian folklore weaves together enchanting tales that offer glimpses into the cultural beliefs, values, and societal norms of bygone eras. Passed down through generations, these stories serve as repositories of wisdom, morality lessons, and captivating entertainment. Today, we delve into one such gem from the 16th century: “Why The Tortoise Went To A Talking Market!”

This particular story highlights the classic folktale trope of a cunning trickster, embodied by the tortoise, who often employs wit and guile to overcome challenges and achieve his desires. However, it’s not just about cleverness; the tale delves deeper into themes of greed, pride, and the consequences of defying social order.

The story begins with Tortoise residing in a tranquil village, seemingly content with his life. But like many creatures with ambitious hearts, he yearns for something more – grand feasts, luxurious possessions, and perhaps even a bit of societal recognition. This longing leads him to eavesdrop on whispers traveling through the marketplace, tales of a mystical “Talking Market” said to grant wishes in exchange for a small price.

Intrigued, Tortoise sets off on a perilous journey to this legendary market, his mind brimming with visions of unimaginable riches and grandeur. Along the way, he encounters various animals who offer him advice – some cautioning against the potential dangers while others encourage him to pursue his desires. Undeterred, Tortoise presses onward, driven by his insatiable ambition.

Finally, he arrives at the Talking Market, a bustling hub filled with curious vendors and exotic goods. The market truly lives up to its name; fruits chatter, vegetables boast of their nutritional value, and spices engage in lively debates. Overwhelmed but determined, Tortoise approaches the Market Elder – a wise old palm tree known for granting wishes.

Here’s where the story takes a fascinating turn: instead of asking directly for wealth or possessions, Tortoise cleverly disguises his desire by requesting “wisdom beyond compare”. This seemingly noble request intrigues the Market Elder who, impressed by Tortoise’s cunning, agrees to fulfill his wish.

However, there’s a catch – Tortoise must complete a series of challenging tasks designed to test his newfound wisdom. These tasks range from solving riddles posed by enigmatic creatures to navigating treacherous mazes within the market itself. As Tortoise tackles each challenge, his pride swells, leading him to believe he has truly become wise beyond measure.

But alas, Tortoise’s arrogance proves to be his downfall. In the final task, he is presented with a choice – a chest filled with gold or a simple clay pot. Blinded by his greed and convinced of his superior intellect, Tortoise chooses the chest overflowing with riches.

The Market Elder watches, a knowing twinkle in his ancient eyes, as Tortoise departs the market, laden with gold but carrying an immense burden on his soul. As Tortoise journeys back to his village, he realizes the weight of his choices: the gold brings him no joy, and his newfound wealth alienates him from his community. He craves the simple camaraderie he once enjoyed, realizing that true wisdom lies not in material possessions but in humility and connection with others.

This poignant ending leaves us contemplating the deeper message embedded within the story:

“Why The Tortoise Went To A Talking Market!” is more than just a charming tale; it’s a powerful commentary on universal human desires and the importance of finding balance between ambition and contentment. It serves as a timeless reminder that true wisdom lies not in accumulating possessions but in nurturing meaningful relationships and contributing to the well-being of our communities. And perhaps, just maybe, it encourages us to listen carefully to the wisdom whispered by the marketplace around us – not just the “Talking Market” of folktales, but the bustling world we inhabit each day.