No character in the book says it. However, it is described as just a saying used by the Ibo people to discribe how much fun the people would have on moonlit nights.
People believe that in following the decisions of the Gods and Goddesses, they will not be punished, even if they may have to do unpleasant actions.
Eneke-nti-oba, in Igbo legend, is the bird who challenged the world to wrestle, and who was then thrown by the cat. The Igbo have a proverb that says "Since men have learned to shoot without missing, Eneke has learned to fly without perching."
When a man fails alone, it is more likely that the man will be blamed for the failure. When a man fails with others, it is more likely that the circumstances will be blamed for the failure. A failure of self is more damning than a failure due to circumstance.
The white men were Europeans who had come to colonize and convert the lands of the Igbo to Christianity.
He who brings kola brings life. This has multiple meanings. Kola is life, as it comes from Life. Life is seen not just in the offering, but also shown in the gathering of friends or family. The bonds made when breaking Kola also appear.
The author quotes the Igbo proverb "When the moon is shining the cripple becomes hungry for a walk." This proverb in "Things Fall Apart" is used to describe how a beautiful moonlit night tempts someone to enjoy the outdoors, even if they are usually confined by their limitations.
More than one proverb begins this way. Two are: all things come to him who waits; and all (good) things come to an end.
All Things Shining - 2012 was released on: USA: 14 June 2012 (limited)
the proverb would be. "It is always darkest before the dawn."
mighty oaks from little acorns grow
Far things look better
do things in order
All good things.
Good things come in small packages. Good things come to those who wait.
It means that everyone has their own way of doing things. They have their own motives and they do things for a reason.
This means you do nice things and are pretty inside by doing kind deeds.
you get things done better when you do them without help