A Dance of the Forests by Wole Soyinka

This blog task is part of thinking activity given by Megha Ma'am. I'll do my utmost to respond the questions.

∆ Write a proposed alternative end of the play 'A Dance of the Forest' by Wole Soyinka. 

Ans-> In Wole Soyinka's original play, "A Dance of the Forests," the narrative culminates in a complex interplay between the living, the dead, and supernatural entities, highlighting the cyclical nature of human folly and the challenges of societal transformation. The ending leaves the audience contemplating the persistent struggles of humanity to break free from past mistakes.

Proposed Alternative Ending:

Scene: The Forest Clearing at Dawn

As the first light of dawn pierces through the dense canopy, the chaotic energies that once dominated the forest begin to wane. The Forest Head, observing the unfolding events, decides to intervene directly for the first time.

Forest Head: (Addressing all present) "The dance has revealed the depths of your transgressions and the weight of history you all carry. Yet, within this turmoil lies the seed of redemption."

Turning to Demoke, the troubled artist, the Forest Head continues:

Forest Head: "Demoke, your hands have both created and destroyed. To atone, you must now sculpt a new totem—one that embodies unity, remembrance, and hope."

Demoke, humbled and resolute, approaches a fallen tree and begins to carve. As he works, the Dead Man and Dead Woman step forward, their forms shimmering between the corporeal and the ethereal.

Dead Woman: "In this new creation, let our stories be etched, not as a burden, but as lessons for those who come after."

The other characters—Rola, Adenebi, and Agboreko—gather around, each contributing symbols and artifacts representing their personal journeys and realizations.

As the totem nears completion, a palpable change permeates the forest. The spirits, once restless, now appear serene. Eshuoro, the malevolent spirit, sensing the shift, attempts to sow discord but finds his powers diminished.

Eshuoro: (Defiantly) "This does not absolve you! The past cannot be undone!"

Forest Head: "True, but the future is yet to be written. This totem stands as a testament to our commitment to change."

In a final act, the Forest Head blesses the totem, and it radiates a warm, encompassing light. The boundary between the living and the dead dissolves, symbolizing reconciliation and the possibility of a harmonious coexistence.

Forest Head: "The dance continues, but its rhythm is now yours to define. Remember, reflect, and rebuild."

The characters, both mortal and spirit, join hands in a unified dance, circling the totem as the sun fully rises, casting a golden hue over the forest—a new dawn symbolizing hope, unity, and the collective resolve to forge a better future.

Conclusion:

This alternative ending offers a more hopeful resolution, emphasizing active atonement, unity, and the transformative power of collective action. By creating a new totem that encapsulates their shared histories and aspirations, the characters take a definitive step toward breaking the cycles of the past and shaping a more harmonious future.