Fortvne And The Boy

Author: Walter Crane

    A Boy heedless slept by the well
    By Dame Fortune awaked, truth to tell,
    Said she, "Hadst been drowned,
    'Twould have surely been found
    This by Fortune, not Folly befel."

    Fortune Is Not Answerable For Our Want Of Foresight
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Type of Poem: Fable

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem presents an interesting exploration of the themes of fate and personal responsibility. The narrative structure of the poem introduces us to a boy who, due to carelessness, sleeps by a well and is awakened by Dame Fortune, who is often personified as luck or fate. The tone is didactic and somewhat mocking, serving as a cautionary tale about the perils of not taking responsibility for one's actions and instead blaming it on fate or fortune.

The poem's structure is a limerick, a form known for its humorous and often frivolous content. This contrasts with the poem's serious message, creating an interesting tension. The use of personification, with Dame Fortune acting as a character, is a standout literary device that helps bring the theme to life. The poet effectively uses this device to argue that blaming misfortune on 'Fortune' is an act of folly, a lack of foresight. In summary, this poem is a cleverly structured and thematically rich examination of personal responsibility and the human tendency to attribute our downfalls to external forces.

Understanding Fables

A fable is a timeless form of storytelling, typically featuring animals as characters that embody human traits, all while conveying a moral lesson. These short narratives have been used throughout history to impart wisdom, offering insights that remain relevant across generations.

Fables stand out for their simplicity and clarity, often concluding with a lesson that is easy to understand and remember. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Animal Characters: The main characters are often animals that represent human behaviors and characteristics, making the stories both engaging and relatable.
  • Concise Narrative: Fables are brief and focused, with each story centering around a single event or interaction that leads to a moral conclusion.
  • Moral Lesson: The purpose of a fable is to teach a lesson, which is usually stated clearly at the end, offering practical advice or ethical guidance.

From Aesop's ancient tales to modern adaptations, fables continue to be a powerful tool for education and moral reflection, resonating with audiences of all ages.