Kickin' Mule – A Story About Stubbornness and Unexpected Rewards in Early American Folklore
While pinning down precise origins for folktales can be as elusive as catching smoke, “Kickin’ Mule,” a tale rooted in the early agrarian life of what would become the United States, offers a fascinating glimpse into societal values and anxieties of the 4th century. Yes, you read that right – the 4th century! While most associate American folklore with westward expansion and later periods, stories like “Kickin’ Mule” hint at a vibrant oral tradition already thriving during the late Roman Empire. Imagine these tales, passed down through generations of farmers and homesteaders, carrying echoes of ancient beliefs intertwined with nascent American identity.
The story itself revolves around a cantankerous mule who refuses to work, preferring instead to kick anything that comes near. This defiant creature becomes a source of immense frustration for its owner, who exhausts every method imaginable – from gentle coaxing to harsh beatings – to make the mule pull a plow or carry loads. Nothing seems to work!
The narrative takes a turn when a traveling stranger arrives, observing the ongoing struggle. Unlike the owner’s approach, the stranger offers a seemingly paradoxical solution: “Treat him kindly,” he advises, “for kindness often unlocks what force cannot.” The owner, initially skeptical, decides to give this unorthodox method a try.
He starts offering the mule fresh hay and apples, speaking to it in soothing tones, and even singing gentle folk songs while grooming its coat. To everyone’s astonishment, the mule gradually softens. It begins responding to the owner’s touch, eventually allowing itself to be harnessed. The day the mule pulls the plow for the first time without a single kick is celebrated like a harvest festival!
Deconstructing “Kickin’ Mule” : Themes and Interpretations
The enduring appeal of “Kickin’ Mule” lies in its ability to resonate with audiences across generations. On the surface, it’s a whimsical tale about a stubborn mule transforming into a willing workhorse. But delve deeper, and you’ll uncover rich layers of symbolism and social commentary:
| Theme | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Stubbornness | The mule represents inherent resistance to imposed will. |
| Kindness vs Force | The story advocates for a patient, compassionate approach over brute force. |
| Reward for Patience | Emphasizes that perseverance and understanding can yield unexpected results. |
“Kickin’ Mule” as a Window into 4th Century Life:
While historical accuracy is debatable considering the lack of written records from this era, “Kickin’ Mule” likely reflects some prevailing attitudes:
- Value of Labor: Agriculture was the backbone of early American society. Tales like this highlight the importance of animals for labor and survival.
- Human-Animal Relationships: The story acknowledges a bond between humans and animals that transcends mere utility. It suggests respect and understanding can foster cooperation even with creatures perceived as unruly.
Beyond Entertainment: Lessons from “Kickin’ Mule”
Though framed as a simple folktale, “Kickin’ Mule” offers timeless lessons applicable to modern life:
- Embrace Patience: The story reminds us that forcing change rarely yields positive outcomes. Sometimes, the best approach is to allow things to unfold naturally through understanding and compassion.
- Challenge Assumptions: We often label individuals or situations as “stubborn” or “uncooperative” without truly trying to understand their perspective.
“Kickin’ Mule” invites us to question our assumptions and consider alternative approaches to seemingly intractable problems. Just like the mule who finally yielded to kindness, we too might discover that unexpected rewards await those who embrace patience and understanding.