Hard As Wood

We are still trying to figure out the meaning behind this “work of art” that was on display at the Independence showcase in Vieux Fort. Does it represent “Mr. Hard Times” or a simple reminder of a nation’s creativity?

We also theorized that it may have something to do with the knock on wood expression, derived from ancient pagan cultures where it was believed that trees were inhabited by spirits. Thus, one could simply knock on the bark of a tree to invoke the aid of the benevolent “bolom” residing within.

Some say it’s for good luck but if you ask us it sounds awfully familiar – can someone say “tjebois”?

So what of this carving; will it bring to us some good fortune and see us out of the woods, so to speak, anytime soon?

Photo by Dave Pascal