Let’s break this scenario down. In the first scene, the man is dangling from a branch, precariously stuck between two deadly predators. On one side, there’s a lion—fast, strong, and capable of tearing him apart the moment he touches the ground. On the other side, the river below is teeming with crocodiles, waiting for him to make one false move and drop into their grasp. Adding to the tension is a snake wrapped around the very branch he’s holding onto. While the snake might initially seem like just another threat, it plays a crucial role in his eventual escape. To survive, the man must think quickly, analyze his surroundings, and find an unconventional way out.
The first step in solving this dilemma is to assess the situation. The man faces three main threats: the lion, the crocodiles, and the snake. Each one presents a unique danger, but as with any good riddle, there’s a way to turn these obstacles into opportunities. The key to survival lies in the snake. Although it might seem counterintuitive to interact with something so dangerous, the snake becomes the man’s unexpected lifeline. By using it strategically, he can outsmart the predators and escape unharmed.
In the next stage of the riddle, the man makes his move. Instead of holding onto the branch in fear, he engages with the snake. He removes his pants and uses them as a decoy to distract the crocodiles below. This diversion buys him precious seconds. Grabbing the snake, he lets go of the branch and uses the snake as a makeshift swing. At first, this action appears reckless, but it’s a calculated risk that gives him a critical advantage. The snake doesn’t attack him; instead, it becomes a tool that allows him to create momentum and swing away from immediate danger.
