Dominica Proverbs (5)

Traditional proverbs of Dominica in Khmer and English — each with its meaning and source.

Piti hach ka bat gwo bwa.

“Little axe cuts big tree.”

Do not judge someone or something by its size; the small can accomplish what the large cannot.

Source: Traditional Dominica proverb (Kwéyòl), public-domain oral tradition

Zandoli sav ki pyé bwa I ka mouté.

“The lizard knows which tree to climb.”

It is good to be wise; know your ground and choose your path carefully.

Source: Traditional Dominica proverb (Kwéyòl), public-domain oral tradition

Wavèt pa ni padon douvan poul.

“The cockroach has no pardon in front of the fowl.”

Some situations leave no room for mercy or escape; certain consequences cannot be avoided.

Source: Traditional Dominica proverb (Kwéyòl), public-domain oral tradition

Vyé kanawi ka fè bon bouyon.

“Old pots make good soup.”

Do not abandon the old and proven for the new; experience and tradition still hold great value.

Source: Traditional Dominica proverb (Kwéyòl), public-domain oral tradition

“There are always two deaths, the real one and the one people know about.”

Source: Jean Rhys, Wide Sargasso Sea (1966)