While having an old filling replaced the other day, I had occasion to remember this 4000 year-old tale from ancient Sumer.
All praise be to Father Enki!
Father Enki and the Worm
In the beginning, all creatures came before Father Enki, Lord of Wisdom, and to each, he assigned its own proper food.
To the cow, he gave grass. To the lion, he gave the gazelle. To each creature, he gave its own proper food.
Finally, the worm came before him.
To you, worm, I give this to eat, said Father Enki.
No, no, I don't want that, said the worm.
Well then, worm, I give you this to eat, said Father Enki.
No, I don't want that, either, said the worm.
Father Enki was displeased. Well then, what do you want? he asked.
I want people's teeth for my food, said the worm.
