Story Summary
Discover the Cherokee legend of The First Fire, where a brave water spider succeeds where others failed, bringing light and warmth to a cold, ancient world.
In the beginning of the world, it was cold and the animals were shivering. The Thunders, who lived in the Upper World, sent lightning down to a hollow sycamore tree on an island, creating a magnificent fire. The animals gathered on the shore, desperate for warmth but afraid of the deep water. Raven flew across first, but the heat scorched his feathers jet black, and he returned empty-handed. Screech Owl went next, but the smoke stung his eyes until they turned red, a mark he carries to this day. Even the great snakes tried to swim across, but they only returned with charred skin. Finally, the tiny Water Spider volunteered. The other animals doubted her, but she wove a bowl of silk upon her back and skimmed gracefully across the surface of the lake. She reached the island, placed a single glowing coal into her basket, and brought it back to the shore. Through her courage and ingenuity, the animals received the gift of fire, bringing light and warmth to the world.
The Moral
True strength is found in ingenuity and courage rather than size or physical power.
“The smallest among us may carry the greatest light.”
Fun Fact
This Cherokee legend serves as an 'etiological' myth, meaning it explains why certain animals look the way they do today, such as the owl's red eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The First Fire?
The story teaches that size and strength are not the only forms of power, as the smallest creature can achieve what the largest cannot through wit and bravery.
Which animal successfully brought the fire?
The Water Spider was the only animal capable of retrieving the fire by weaving a silk bowl to carry a glowing coal across the water.
How did the Raven get his black feathers?
According to the legend, the Raven's feathers were originally a different color but were permanently scorched black by the intense heat of the sycamore fire.
What tribe does this legend come from?
The First Fire is a traditional creation legend from the Cherokee people of North America, explaining the origins of fire and various animal traits.
Why did the larger animals fail to get the fire?
The larger animals were overcome by the intense heat and blinding smoke, as they lacked a safe way to carry the burning coal across the deep water.
What does the Water Spider symbolize in this story?
The Water Spider symbolizes ingenuity, persistence, and the vital role that every individual, regardless of size, plays in the survival of a community.
