In the diverse mosaic of West African culture, proverbs provide the basis for foundational wisdom that transcends time. These words of insight, passed down through the generations, aren't simply clever sayings; rather they are condensed capsules of understanding, enshrined with moral lessons, social codes--the very essence of a way of life. One can begin to imagine these proverbs as Rosetta Stones, offering glimpses into the soul of a society with each elegant turn of phrase. While West Africa boasts a rich diversity of varying ethnicities, this brief exploration focuses on the storied Yoruba and Edo peoples – the two ethnic groups that comprise me and Papadu Papadu's mixed heritage--to provide a unique lens through which to view some of these timeless treasures.
Poetic Wisdom in Everyday Life
The Yoruba people, renowned for vibrant eloquence and philosophical depth; proverbs are considered prized possessions, like "horses that can carry one swiftly to the discovery of ideas." For instance, a proverb like "Ile la ti n ko eso re ode" (Charity begins at home) reminds us of the bedrock of upbringing, while another, "Gbogbo alangba lo d'anu dele" (All lizards lie flat on their stomach...), compels empathy by highlighting hidden struggles.
These adages are more than simple metaphors; they are potent social tools with a special type of gravity providing applicable to a variety of circumstances; a well-placed proverb can function to mediate a dispute, guide a young person's path, or simply offer a wry observation on human nature.
Nevertheless, the real beauty of Yoruba proverbs often lies in their poetic nature. Many are crafted with a rhythmic quality, incorporating techniques such as alliteration and assonance to convey wisdom in a memorable manner, ensuring their survival across generations. Consider the proverb "Aja to ba ma sonu, kii gbo fere olode" (A dog that will get lost won't hear the hunter's whistle). Beyond its literal meaning, this saying speaks to the inevitability of fate and the futility of warnings to those determined to follow a destructive path. The imagery of the hunt, a common activity in traditional Yoruba society, makes the lesson instantly relatable.
Despite its roots in a specific cultural context, this proverb's wisdom transcends both time and place. In today's fast-paced, information-saturated world, it serves as a poignant reminder of how we can become deaf to well-meaning advice, stubbornly pursuing courses of action that may lead to downfall. Hence, it is this timeless quality that allows ancient Yoruba wisdom to resonate just as powerfully today as it did in antiquity.
Pragmatic Guidance from the Niger Delta
Across the Niger River, among the Edo people, particularly the Esan, proverbs take on a distinct character that reflects a unique cultural perspective. While Yoruba proverbs often employ poetic devices and metaphorical language, Edo proverbs tend to be more direct and action-oriented, mirroring the pragmatic worldview of their creators. "Akhue oya, akhue oya" (A proverb about the inevitability of destiny) exemplifies this approach, offering a straightforward acknowledgment of fate's role in human affairs. Similarly, "Ovbokhanmwen no gha re evbo" (A child who does not listen to advice...) delivers its wisdom with unambiguous clarity, emphasizing the tangible consequences of ignoring counsel.
Esan proverbs, in particular, are renowned for their unflinching approach to life's practicalities. "Uhumnwu ne a mu rre ọ re a ya khian" (It is the head which one brought into this world...) serves as a potent reminder of personal responsibility, its message devoid of flowery language but rich in implication. These proverbs are the lifeblood of the Esan community, passed down from elders, ensuring each generation inherits not just cultural wisdom, but a practical philosophy for navigating life's complexities. They are woven into conversations, employed in storytelling, and serve as guiding principles, their straightforward nature making them readily applicable to a wide range of situations.
The Edo approach to proverbs often reflects their historical emphasis on kingdom-building and governance, a testament to the legacy of the great Benin Empire. Many proverbs touch on themes of leadership, community responsibility, and the importance of tradition. For instance, "Oba no'gbe omo ere kpare" (A king who kills his own child invites disaster) serves as a potent reminder of the responsibilities of power and the far-reaching consequences of a leader's actions. This proverb, like many others, underscores the Edo belief in the interconnectedness of individual actions and communal well-being.
Another distinctive feature of Edo proverbs is their frequent use of natural imagery, particularly animals, to convey complex human behaviors and societal dynamics. "Okhua vbe aro omen, aro omen a vbe okhua" (The rat is in the barn, and the barn is on the rat) speaks to the mutual dependency often found in relationships, be they personal or societal. Such proverbs demonstrate the Edo people's keen observation of the natural world and their ability to draw parallels between nature and human society.
Esan proverbs, a subset of Edo wisdom, often carry an additional layer of specificity, reflecting the unique cultural practices and historical experiences of the Esan people. "Omoh noh mu egho ghi ere vbe oto ogho" (A child who knows how to wash his hands eats with the elders) is not just about table manners; it speaks to the importance of learning and respecting cultural norms as a means of gaining acceptance and advancement in society. This proverb, like many others, serves as a compact guide for social navigation, particularly for younger generations seeking to understand and integrate into the complex social fabric of Esan society.
These proverbs, whether broadly Edo or specifically Esan, share a common thread of practicality and directness. They serve not just as repositories of wisdom, but as active tools for problem-solving, decision-making, and social cohesion. In a world of rapid change, these proverbs provide a grounding force, connecting modern Edo and Esan people to the wisdom of their ancestors while offering timeless insights into the human condition.
Diverse Voices, Shared Canvas
While Yoruba and Edo proverbs share the common goal of preserving heritage, their nuances differ. Yoruba proverbs often sing of harmony and community, their beauty enhanced by rhythm and rhyme. Think of them as succinct poems, carrying wisdom on a melody of language. Esan proverbs, on the other hand, are a treasure trove of practical wisdom, perfect for navigating the complexities of everyday life. They are the hammers and nails that build a strong social structure, offering guidance on everything from interpersonal relationships to agricultural practices.
Proverbial Forms, exemplifies this movement, through this project, we aim to celebrate ancient African wisdom through art. As timeless sayings are re-interpreted into contemporary artworks, we hope to help bridge the gap between age-old wisdom and modern aesthetics. Imagine a vibrant painting that captures the essence of "Gbogbo alangba lo d'anu dele" (All lizards lie flat on their stomach...), where the use of color and form compels viewers to consider the hidden struggles of those around them. Or a sculpture inspired by "Ovbokhanmwen no gha reevbo" (A child who does not listen to advice...), conveying the importance of seeking guidance. As varied as the proverbs within the existing corpus, so are the artistic forms and techniques we seek to incorporate into Proverbial Forms – whether traditional painting, sculpture, poetry, music, mixed media or otherwise – each meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the proverb.
Proverbs are more than just words; they're living testaments to a rich heritage. Their artistic reinterpretation ensures their survival, allowing them to continue to educate, inspire, and connect people across generations and cultures. The Proverbial Forms project is just one thread in this vibrant tapestry, a testament to the power of art to bridge the past and present. It ensures that the wisdom embedded in our heritage continues to resonate for generations to come.
As we explore new themes and expand the project, the mission remains the same: to create a lasting legacy, one proverb at a time. We envision a future where these proverbs are not just relics of the past but vibrant tools for navigating the complexities of the modern world. Imagine a young person grappling with a difficult decision, finding solace and guidance in the wisdom of a proverb passed down for centuries. Or a global audience connecting over the shared humanity embedded in these ancient sayings. This is the future we are working towards, a future where proverbs continue to serve as bridges between cultures and generations.