The Origin Story of the Coconut Tree from the Marshall Islands
Long ago, on the shores of Woja on Ailinglaplap atoll, lived a woman named Limokare. One day, she bore a second son named Tobolar, and he was unlike any other baby boy. While Tobolar had a charming, little human face, he was not shaped like a normal baby. He had no arms or legs, was unable to move; he was green and round. Limokare was not repulsed by her baby’s odd features, but instead loved him even deeper. She showered him with endless warmth and aection, constantly breastfeeding him, which kept him round and full of milk. This made her first son, Lokam, full of disgust and resentment. Lokam’s jealousy eventually led him to abandon his family after failing to convince his mother to get rid of Tobolar. As time went on, Tobolar changed in color from green to brown. Concerned that he could not care for Limokare, he said, “Mother, it’s time for me to return the blessings you have given me. Bury me, and I will grow into a tree bearing many gifts for you. Under me, you will find shade to rest. With my leaves you will create stronger homes and baskets. My fruits will quench your thirst, their meat will nourish your body, and their husks will make fine rope. Plant the fruits that aren’t used, and you shall grow more trees.” This was how coconut trees came to be.
Charcoal and Acrylic paint on paper
Please note: frames are not included
18”×24”
Long ago, on the shores of Woja on Ailinglaplap atoll, lived a woman named Limokare. One day, she bore a second son named Tobolar, and he was unlike any other baby boy. While Tobolar had a charming, little human face, he was not shaped like a normal baby. He had no arms or legs, was unable to move; he was green and round. Limokare was not repulsed by her baby’s odd features, but instead loved him even deeper. She showered him with endless warmth and aection, constantly breastfeeding him, which kept him round and full of milk. This made her first son, Lokam, full of disgust and resentment. Lokam’s jealousy eventually led him to abandon his family after failing to convince his mother to get rid of Tobolar. As time went on, Tobolar changed in color from green to brown. Concerned that he could not care for Limokare, he said, “Mother, it’s time for me to return the blessings you have given me. Bury me, and I will grow into a tree bearing many gifts for you. Under me, you will find shade to rest. With my leaves you will create stronger homes and baskets. My fruits will quench your thirst, their meat will nourish your body, and their husks will make fine rope. Plant the fruits that aren’t used, and you shall grow more trees.” This was how coconut trees came to be.
Charcoal and Acrylic paint on paper
Please note: frames are not included
18”×24”