Hot And Cold

By Walter Crane

Fable
    When to warm his cold fingers man blew,     And again, but to cool the hot stew;     Simple Satyr, unused     To man's ways, felt confused,     When the same mouth blew hot & cold too!     sop Aimed At Double Dealing

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a limerick that utilizes humor and irony to explore the theme of hypocrisy or 'double-dealing'. The poet uses the narrative of a simple satyr, a creature from Greek mythology, to highlight the inconsistency in human actions, thereby offering commentary on contradictory human behavior. The satyr's confusion serves as a mirror reflecting human inconsistency, doubling as a criticism of dishonesty and deception.

The poem's structure abides by the traditional limerick form, with a rhyme scheme of AABBA and a specific syllabic and rhythmic pattern, which lends the poem a playful, rhythmic tone. The usage of contrast and irony as literary devices is noteworthy, where the same act of blowing is used for two opposite outcomes – warming and cooling. The title of the poem, "sop Aimed At Double Dealing", further underlines the poet's intention to criticize duplicity. Overall, this poem combines humor, irony, and mythological imagery to deliver social commentary on human inconsistency and dishonesty.

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.