Podcast Summary: Circle Round – "Encore: The Missing Mountainside"
Introduction
In the special encore edition of WBUR’s beloved podcast Circle Round, host Rebecca Scheer revisits the enchanting tale titled "The Missing Mountainside." Originally aired on July 22, 2025, this episode delves into themes of greed, community responsibility, and the consequences of overconsumption. Adapted from a Taiwanese folktale, the story captivates listeners with its rich narrative and moral lessons, all brought to life by a talented ensemble including Karen Huey.
Story Overview
Setting the Scene
"The Missing Mountainside" is set in a bustling village at the base of Ban Ping Mountain, also known as Half Screen Mountain. This mountain is famed for its peculiar flat face, a natural formation explained scientifically by tectonic activity. However, the legend unfolds differently as the story begins in the lively marketplace of the village.
The Arrival of the Old Woman
At [00:xx], the marketplace is abuzz with traders and shoppers when an enigmatic old woman arrives, pushing a rickety cart adorned with a bright silver pot. Her presence quickly garners attention due to the enticing aroma of her dumplings.
Notable Quote:
- Old Woman [03:11]: "Dumplings. Steaming dumplings. Here, get em while they're hot."
The Curious Offer
The old woman presents an unusual pricing scheme: one dumpling for one copper piece, two for two, and three for free ([04:01]). Initially skeptical, the market goers quickly succumb to her offer, each opting to take three dumplings without paying. As the days pass, her cart becomes a staple in the marketplace, with the townspeople reveling in their free treats.
Notable Quotes:
- Market Goer 1 [04:04]: "You aren't serious, are you?"
- Old Woman [04:25]: "That's absolutely correct."
The Turning Point
One week into her offerings, a young woman wearing worn-out shoes approaches the cart. Unlike the others, she requests only one dumpling ([09:48]). This act of restraint perplexes the crowd and catches the old woman’s attention.
Notable Quotes:
- Young Woman [09:48]: "I've been hearing all week about your amazing dumplings and I'd love to have a taste. So I'm wondering, may I please have just one?"
- Old Woman [10:04]: "I'm sorry, young lady, but I can't always rely on these old ears of mine."
Revelation of the Mountain Spirit
The young woman’s humble request serves as a test. Moved by her integrity, the old woman reveals her true identity as the spirit of Ban Ping Mountain. She rewards the young woman with a magical dumpling pot that produces endless dumplings, provided she only takes what she needs ([12:01]).
Notable Quotes:
- Old Woman [12:01]: "Your one copper piece is more than enough to show me that you have passed my test."
- Old Woman [12:22]: "Well, the truth of the matter is I am not a kooky old dumpling seller... you are the one I have been waiting for."
The Consequence of Greed
The revelation takes a dark turn as the old woman directs the villagers to look at the mountain. They discover that half of Ban Ping Mountain has vanished, a direct consequence of their gluttonous actions—having consumed dumplings made from the mountain’s stone. This loss serves as a poignant lesson on the irreversible damage caused by unchecked greed ([14:39]).
Notable Quotes:
- Old Woman [14:22]: "The dumplings you've been eating all week long were not real dumplings. They were made from the stones of the mountain."
- Old Woman [14:39]: "Let this be a lesson to you all that sometimes what is taken away cannot ever be replaced."
Epilogue
Years later, Ban Ping Mountain becomes a quarry, symbolizing ongoing human disregard for nature’s limits. The mountain’s altered appearance serves as a lasting reminder to the community to take only what they need and respect the balance of their environment.
Key Themes and Insights
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Greed vs. Generosity: The villagers’ initial refusal to pay for the dumplings reflects human tendencies toward greed, especially when something is offered for free. The young woman’s choice to take only what she needs highlights the virtue of moderation.
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Consequences of Overconsumption: The disappearance of half the mountain underscores the real-world implications of overconsumption and resource exploitation, aligning with environmental conservation messages.
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Community Responsibility: The story emphasizes the importance of community members looking out for one another and holding each other accountable, as demonstrated by the young woman challenging the status quo.
Activity and Engagement
At the end of the story, Rebecca Scheer invites listeners to engage creatively by drawing two pictures: one depicting the mountain before the villagers' actions and one after. This activity encourages children and adults alike to reflect on the story’s moral and visualize the consequences of their actions.
Notable Quote:
- Rebecca Sheer [16:07]: "Now it's your turn. Draw two pictures... and share them with us."
Conclusion
"Encore: The Missing Mountainside" serves as a compelling retelling of a traditional folktale, seamlessly blending entertainment with moral education. Through vivid storytelling, engaging characters, and a powerful message, Circle Round invites listeners to ponder the impact of their choices on the world around them.
Final Thoughts
The episode not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on sustainability, ethical behavior, and community solidarity. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to Circle Round, "The Missing Mountainside" is a timeless story that resonates across ages, reminding us all to take only what we need and respect the delicate balance of our environment.
Credits
- Adaptation: Rebecca Scheer
- Editing: Nora Sachs
- Music and Sound Design: Eric Shyamalanis
- Artwork: Sabina Hahn
- Actors: Theodore Chin, Rishikesh Hirway, Shelley Lee, Jessica Rao, Nick Shali Dawn, Ursula, and Karen Huey
For more stories, coloring pages, and engagement activities, visit WBUR.org/CircleRound.