Audio By Carbonatix
Author Lawton Bentil has launched his latest book, "A Tale of a Poor Wise Man," on Sunday, August 4.
This compelling satire delves into the themes of personal leadership and the continent of Africa, offering a poignant commentary on the nature of wisdom and its application.
The book centers around Asiedu, a protagonist endowed with profound wisdom that is evident through the counsel he provides.
However, despite his insightful advice, Asiedu is financially destitute, with three wives, eleven children, and no properties or farmlands.

This paradox serves as a central theme in Mr Bentil’s narrative.
Set in the meticulously fictionalised village of Bibiman—translated to mean "Africa" in English—the story uses this symbolic location to critique a certain type of wisdom prevalent in the continent. Bentil tactically employs Bibiman to denote the geographical setting of this wisdom, which, despite its depth, lacks practical application and tangible results.
The book narrates the story of Bibiman, a city besieged and its inhabitants held captive, which Asiedu saves through his wisdom. However, the subsequent disregard of his counsel underscores a recurring fate for the wisdom of the impoverished.

Mr. Bentil emphasizes that true wisdom is not merely intellectual but should manifest in tangible outcomes, such as financial stability and generational wealth.
In a powerful message to his sons, Asiedu advises, "While you live, make full proof of yourself. Make sure you die empty, make sure you are not called a poor man. Work hard and be consistent at it. Buy lands and properties. Make sure you leave an inheritance for your children's children. Wisdom is good, but wisdom is even better with an inheritance. Learn and be wise. Follow instructions and be honest."
"A Tale of a Poor Wise Man" underscores the unfortunate reality that the wisdom of the socially or economically disadvantaged is often undervalued or ignored. The book ultimately encourages individuals to strive not only for wisdom but also to use it to improve their lives and secure a prosperous future for subsequent generations.
Opanyin Afriyie’s poignant observation, "Nevertheless, the poor man's wisdom is always despised, and his words are not heard," encapsulates the book's core message and serves as a reflective conclusion to this thought-provoking tale.

Lawton Bentil’s new book promises to be an insightful read, blending satire with a deep exploration of wisdom and its real-world implications.
Latest Stories
-
Music, football to converge at Music Meets Football Summit 2026 in Lusaka
4 minutes -
Putin invites young global leaders to partner with Russia in shaping future world order
5 minutes -
Putin calls for ‘just world’, says every nation must be free to choose its own path
13 minutes -
IFY 2026 food festival to serve 20,000 meals showcasing global cuisines in Russia
24 minutes -
Ghana has a Domestic Violence Act: But can a victim afford to use it?
27 minutes -
Young artists from 100 countries showcase works at IFY 2026 in Russia
29 minutes -
Russia opens neo-Nazism exhibition at International Festival of Youth 2026
49 minutes -
‘Let’s change the world together’ – Putin tells young people
54 minutes -
VC inaugurates three committees ahead of UG’s 80th anniversary celebration
55 minutes -
Today’s Front pages: Monday, September 14, 2026
1 hour -
The Or Foundation to launch recycled textiles platform Foose Materials during London Design Week
1 hour -
110 children at Cardiothoracic Centre get second chance at life as Ghana Medical Trust Fund marks first year
1 hour -
‘I’m suffering’ – Motherless 12-year-old who lost both legs, father in Ofankor-Pokuase crash seeks support
1 hour -
Education Ministry extends 2026 SHS placement exercise by one week
2 hours -
Better roads will create sustainable jobs for Ghana’s youth – Joyce Bawah Mogtari
3 hours