A young man becomes inexplicably lazy, distressing his mother who relies on his hunting. She suggests that engaging in marital relations, as his father did, might restore his energy. Following her advice, he regains his vigor but later becomes lazy again due to overindulgence. The story suggests that young men are energetic, then lazy, and only achieve consistent energy levels upon reaching true adulthood.
Source:
Tahltan Tales
by James A. Teit
The American Folklore Society
Journal of American Folklore
Vol.32, No.124, pp.198-250
April-June, 1917
Vol.34, No.133, pp.223-253
July-September, 1921
Vol.34, No.134, pp.335-356
October-December, 1921
► Themes of the story
Transformation: The young man’s shift from an energetic hunter to a state of laziness signifies a profound change in behavior and disposition.
Family Dynamics: The narrative centers on the relationship between the boy and his mother, highlighting her concern and intervention regarding his altered behavior.
Ritual and Initiation: The mother’s guidance involves a form of initiation, suggesting that certain rites or actions are necessary for the young man’s transition into adulthood and the restoration of his vitality.
► From the same Region or People
Learn more about Tahltan people
A boy and his mother lived together. No other people lived near by. The boy grew to be a young man and a very energetic hunter. After a time he ceased to care for hunting, and all his energy seemed to have left him. He became very lazy, and would not hunt. This distressed his mother, for they depended much on game for food. At last she asked him why he had become so lazy. He answered. that he did not know, and that he just felt that way.
His mother said, “I know the reason. Nunc oportet te mecum id facere quod pater tuus fecerit et valens fies.” Turn cum matre sua coiit; [Now you must do with me what your father did and you will become strong.” Then he went with his mother.] and soon he became energetic, as before. He hunted hard at first; but, nimis se effundens, he became restless and lazy, as before.
► Continue reading…
This is why people say that a lad at puberty, or when young, is at first very energetic. Later he becomes very lazy. Then, si uxorem ducit sine incipit cum feminis coire, [if he marries without beginning to have intercourse with women] he loses his laziness, and becomes energetic again. Si modice se effundit, bene est; sed si se invitat, ut solent plerique adulescentes, [If it pours out a little, it is well; but if he invites himself, as most young men do] he becomes lazy again, and inactive. Only later in life, or when really adult, does his true disposition appear. Then he becomes continuously energetic, lazy, or indifferent.
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