We are pleased to participate in the A to Z Blog Challenge for the month of April. The Story Crossroads theme for this year is “Becoming: Tales of Transformation & Calling.” We love exploring traditional tales from around the world within that theme.
About Lazy Bee:
From South American storytelling traditions comes the tale of a bee who must discover her purpose through consequence rather than choice. This story appears in South American Jungle Tales by Horacio Quiroga, a collection of early 20th-century animal tales rooted in the jungle landscapes of Argentina and surrounding regions.
Symbolism and Themes:
Becoming Through Consequence – The bee does not change because she is told to; she changes because she must.
Calling Through Responsibility – Her role in the hive is not optional—it is essential to belonging.
Transformation Through Trial – It is only when she faces real danger that her abilities—and her awareness—emerge.
50-word-or-less summary:
A lazy young bee refuses to work and is barred from her hive. Alone, she shelters with a snake who plans to eat her but escapes through cleverness. Returning home, she must prove she has changed—demonstrating her experience, awareness, and responsibility—before the hive allows her back.
Finding the Story:
This tale appears in South American Jungle Tales by Horacio Quiroga, first published in 1918 (English translation 1922). The collection is available through Project Gutenberg and reflects regional storytelling shaped by the ecosystems and animal life of the South American jungle. A version based on Horacio’s story changes the bee from a “she” to a “he” and other twists.
Finding the Transformation:
The bee’s story reminds us that becoming is not always inspired—it is often required. When comfort is removed, growth begins. Her calling is not discovered in ease, but in necessity. She becomes not by intention, but by encounter—and by proving she is no longer who she was.
Have you ever only discovered what you were capable of when you had no other choice?
Share your thoughts in the comments! While you enjoy this blog, Story Crossroads has year-round offerings. See our popular links and upcoming events at our One-Stop.
As for our past A to Z Challenges…
While you enjoy this blog, Story Crossroads celebrates the 11th hybrid summit & festival on May 2 & 4-6, 2026 – yes, in-person and virtual – and would be honored for you to join us.
Thanks to funding from National Endowment for the Arts; Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP) of Salt Lake County; Creative West; Utah Division of Arts and Museums; City of Murray; Salt Lake City Arts Council; Utah Storytelling Guild; Murray City Library; Pleasant Grove Library; American Fork Library and people like you.