Circle Round Podcast Episode Summary: "The All-Wish Stick"

Introduction

In the October 29, 2024 episode of Circle Round, hosted by WBUR, Rebecca Shear presents the enchanting tale titled "The All-Wish Stick." Adapted from East Asian folktales, this 25-minute story weaves themes of kindness, honesty, and the true essence of making wishes. The narrative follows Fay, a compassionate flute player, as she navigates the magical gift bestowed upon her by the Dragon King and the ensuing consequences of another's greed.

The Life of Fay Faye

Fay Faye resides in a modest seaside town, living in a humble cottage marked by its sagging floors and leaky ceilings. Despite her challenging living conditions, Fay finds joy in helping her neighbors through various odd jobs. Whether mending clothing, tending gardens, or caring for the town's dogs, Fay's generous spirit shines through.

Fay (Narrator) [02:47]: "I replaced the buttons on your jacket, Mr. Lee. What do you think?"

Her true passion, however, lies in playing her bamboo flute. The melodies she creates have a remarkable effect on those who hear them—calming troubled minds, drying tears of sorrow, and softening angry hearts. This magical music underscores the central theme of the story: the power of sincere intentions.

Fay (Narrator) [03:11]: "And sometimes she walked. Dogs, can you pick up the pace? Chester and Rocky and Spike, can you please stop nibbling Coco's collar?"

The Encounter with the Dragon King

One serene summer evening, after a day of assisting her neighbors, Fay decides to play her flute by the seashore. Immersed in her music, she fails to notice the impending danger as a massive wave crashes over her, drenching her completely.

Fay (Narrator) [04:03]: "Seashore so I can play my music beneath the wide open sky. Wouldn't that be glorious?"

As Fay grapples with the overwhelming wave, she is confronted by a giant red crab—the emissary of the Dragon King, the divine ruler of all waters. The crab informs her of her summons to the Dragon King's underwater palace.

Dragon King (Crab) [05:04]: "That's because I did talk to you. By order of the Dragon King."

Curious and slightly apprehensive, Fay boards the crab, plunging beneath the waves to a breathtaking underwater palace adorned with coral and sea glass. There, she meets the formidable Dragon King, whose presence is both awe-inspiring and intimidating.

Dragon King [09:11]: "Does she always ask so many questions?"

Despite her initial nervousness, Fay's genuine love for music impresses the Dragon King, leading him to invite her to stay at his palace for a week in exchange for her performances. True to his word, after seven days of enchanting music, the Dragon King rewards Fay with the All-Wish Stick—a golden artifact that grants any wish made with an honest and good heart.

Dragon King [11:10]: "With this stick in your possession, anything you desire shall be yours, provided you make the wish with a good and honest heart."

Fay's Transformation

Returning to her humble cottage, Fay begins to utilize the All-Wish Stick. Her first wish for a bowl of rice and a pot of tea materializes instantly, alleviating her immediate hunger. Encouraged by this success, she wishes for a new, spacious house. The transformation is miraculous: Fay's cottage becomes a beautiful home, fully furnished and comfortable, enabling her to focus entirely on her music and continue helping her neighbors without financial strain.

Fay (Narrator) [13:12]: "All at once, there was a flash of light. And then what should fay find steaming on the table before her but a deep bowl filled with fluffy white rice?"

Her newfound prosperity strengthens her reputation in the town, and her flute performances continue to bring joy to all who hear them.

The Arrival of Bo: A Lesson in Greed

Fay's neighbor, Bo, becomes intrigued by her sudden fortune and wishes to acquire an All-Wish Stick for himself. Upon hearing Fay's story, Bo's envy and selfish desires prompt him to seek out the Dragon King's gift. Fay, trusting in Bo's good nature, shares her experience and offers him her spare flute, hoping to inspire him to play with the same honesty and passion she does.

Bo [16:37]: "So you're saying it was your flute playing that caught the Dragon King's attention?"

However, Bo's intentions are far from pure. His attempts to use the All-Wish Stick are tainted by greed. When he wishes for a barrel of gold coins, his dishonest heart prevents the magic from responding. Despite multiple attempts, nothing materializes, highlighting the stick's reliance on the purity of the wisher's intentions.

Bo [23:19]: "I wish for a barrel of gold coins."

Fay's story serves as a poignant contrast to Bo's actions, emphasizing the moral that true fulfillment comes from selfless wishes rather than selfish desires.

Conclusion and Moral Insights

"The All-Wish Stick" masterfully conveys the significance of making wishes with a good and honest heart. Fay's altruistic nature and genuine love for music enable her to transform her life positively, while Bo's greed blinds him to the true purpose of the magical gift. The story underscores that true magic lies not in the power to obtain anything one desires but in the integrity and kindness behind one's wishes.

Fay [24:10]: "With this stick in your possession, anything you desire shall be yours, provided you make the wish with a good and honest heart."

Rebecca Shear skillfully adapts this folktale, enriching it with engaging dialogue and vivid storytelling, making it accessible and meaningful for listeners of all ages.

Notable Quotes

• Fay (Narrator) [03:11]: "And sometimes she walked. Dogs, can you pick up the pace? Chester and Rocky and Spike, can you please stop nibbling Coco's collar?"

• Dragon King (Crab) [05:04]: "That's because I did talk to you. By order of the Dragon King."

• Dragon King [09:11]: "Does she always ask so many questions?"

• Bo [16:37]: "So you're saying it was your flute playing that caught the Dragon King's attention?"

• Fay [24:10]: "With this stick in your possession, anything you desire shall be yours, provided you make the wish with a good and honest heart."

Final Thoughts

"The All-Wish Stick" episode of Circle Round not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about the importance of sincerity and the ethical use of power. Through Fay's journey, listeners are reminded that the true magic lies within one's heart and intentions.

For more stories like this, coloring pages, and additional activities to deepen conversations between children and adults, visit WBUR.org/CircleRound.