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Book-title Quote by Elizabeth Gilbert

“We know now that all the people of Polynesia carry taro root and coconut palm and breadfruit with them when they settle a new island, but they themselves will tell you that the gods planted these things here. Some of their stories are quite fabulous. They say that the breadfruit tree was crafted…” quote by Elizabeth Gilbert
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““We know now that all the people of Polynesia carry taro root and coconut palm and breadfruit with them when they settle a new island, but they themselves will tell you that the gods planted these things here. Some of their stories are quite fabulous. They say that the breadfruit tree was crafted by the gods to resemble a human body, as a clue to humans, you see- to tell us that the tree is useful. They say that this is why the leaves of the breadfruit resemble hands- to show humans that they should reach toward this tree and find sustenance there. In fact, the Tahitians say that 'all' the useful plants on this island resemble parts of the human body, as a message from the gods, you see. This is why coconut oil, which is helpful for headaches, comes from the coconut, which looks like a head. 'Mape' chestnuts are said to be good for kidney ailments, for they resemble kidneys themselves, or so I am told. The bright red sap of the 'fei' plant is meant to be useful for blood ailments." "The signature of all things," Alma murmured.””

Elizabeth Gilbert

About This Quote

Source Book: The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert, 2013

Polynesian myths link useful plants to human body parts, suggesting divine intentionality behind nature’s design.

In simple terms: People see divine meaning in plant shapes.

Key Takeaway

Observe how cultural stories shape our view of nature.

Themes

mythology culture nature beliefs

Mood

curious reflective

Type

anthropological educational

When to use this quote

  • agricultural planning
  • cultural education
  • sustainable harvesting
  • heritage tourism
  • environmental storytelling

Key Concepts

symbolism anthropology ethnobotany

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cultural narratives influence ecological knowledge?
  • Can mythic symbolism guide modern sustainability?
A Different Perspective

These analogies may oversimplify scientific explanations of plant utility.

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