The Lion and the Jewel

“That is what the stewpot said to the fire. Have you no shame—at your age licking my bottom? But she was tickled just the same.” 

Lakunle says this to Sidi, indicating that pleasure or pain can and will still be experienced despite the shame it might bring to people. In another sense, one person’s shame is another person’s pleasure.

“For that, what is a jewel to pigs? If I am misunderstood by you and your race of savages, I rise above taunts and remain unruffled.” 

The quote foreshadows the importance of the “jewel” in relation to those things around it, a relationship that ultimately leads to Sidi being tricked by the Bale. The quote also highlights the disgust Lakunle has for his own people, as he thinks them backward and primitive.

“No, don’t! I tell you I dislike this strange unhealthy mouthing you perform.” 

Lakunle kisses Sidi. Her disapproval indicates just how traditional the village of Ilujinle is as kissing is a Western (i.e., “modern”) concept of love and courtship.