Wild Man of the Woods

A native legend of a masked figure who offers food to lost individuals in Ontario, Canada.

Origin

The myth originated with the Ojibwe People of Ontario, being a lesson for young aboriginal children to never get lost in the woods or else you'll have to meet with the devilish Wild Man of the Woods.

The story tells the tale of lost Ogimaa, who comes across the Wild Man while trying to find his way back

Story

Long ago when the trees stood hunched, a young man named Ogimaa explored the forest next to his peaceful village.

His short exploration turned long as the sun began to rest on the horizon. Only for poor Ogimaa to forget his way back.

For four days and four nights, Ogimaa walked through the woods, trying to find his way back. But all he could see around him is 

trees.

Laying on the floor, tired and alone, Ogimaa was about to give up.

Suddenly, he saw someone poking their head behind the trees.

A Masked Man of the Woods with a crooked face waddles up to young Ogimaa, holding a bowl of delicious meats.

Ogimaa stands up to greet the man.

"Thank you so much! I've been lost in these woods for days now and really need to head back home".

"Home? Why, you are home! Home is where the woods are and here you stand right in the middle of it. You must be a Wild Man too." the Wild Man proclaims.

"I am no Wild Man, I am Ogimaa." said Ogimaa.

"I've never heard of an Ogimaa before. Does an Ogimaa live in the Woods?" The Wildman tilts his head, confused.

"No," said Ogimaa. "Ogimaa lives with his village, with his people. I must hurry there so I can be with them."

"But if Ogimaa has to go to the village, who will be Ogimaa in the Woods?"

"It could be you. You can be me of the woods. You can be Ogimaa."

"No, I couldn't be. I'm already Bawkas of the Woods"

"I'm sorry Bakwas but I must be going."

"Oh Please? May I persuade you into reconsidering?" The Wild Man lifts his bowl of meats up to Ogimaa's face.

Ogimaa glistens at the sight of it. He has not eaten in four days and his stomach rages louder than a thunderstorm.

The Wild Man gestures to the plate in front of his face, beckoning Ogimaa to try some.

"I'm sorry Bawkas, but I must head home. Though, is it alright if I could have a piece of your food you brought?"

"But of course! It would be rude of me not to help out a fellow Wild Man."

Omigaa takes a bite out of the diced meat. The flavor and softness are far better than anything from his home, which reminds him more of his village so dearly.

"This is delicious! What is this Bakwas?" asked Ogimaa.

"Flesh of Man."

*Ogimaa: Ojibwe name for 'Leader, Ruler, or King '.