A Synopsis of "Why the Baby Says Goo"

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As you saw in the introduction, folktales explain the ways of nature. "Why the Baby Says Goo" is a Native American tale that tries to explain how babies act. It describes their natural reactions and at the same time shows how powerless adults are to control a baby's reactions and behavior.

The tale begins in an Indian Village where a brave Indian chief brags that he can conquer anyone. A wise woman in the village claims there is one more powerful than the chief. Upon hearing this, the proud chief is disturbed and goes to the woman's wigwam to ask who this powerful one might be.

The woman points to a fat little baby sitting happily on the floor. Twice the chief orders the baby to come to him, but the baby just smiles and ignores the chief. The chief becomes very angry because no one ever disobeys him, so he shouts at the baby and gives him a mean look. The baby begins to cry and scream. The chief is amazed. He thinks the baby is shouting back war cries. Next, the chief tries to control him with his magical dances and songs. The baby is amused and laughs at the chief. Finally the chief is too tired to dance and sing any longer. The old woman tells him, "no one is stronger than the baby. He always controls the wigwam. Everyone loves him and obeys him."

As the defeated chief sadly leaves the wigwam, he hears the baby saying "goo, goo, goo" - the happy war cry of the baby who has just won his battle with the exhausted chief.

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