The Ass In The Lion's Skin

Author: Walter Crane

    "What pranks I shall play!" thought the Ass,
    "In this skin for a Lion to pass;"
    But he left one ear out,
    And a hiding, no doubt,
    "Lion" had--on the skin of an Ass!

    Imposters Generally Forget Something
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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 employs a humorous narrative and a traditional limerick form to convey a moral lesson, a structure akin to Aesop's fables. The theme of the poem revolves around deception and the consequences of dishonesty, embodied by the ass, who attempts to disguise himself as a lion. The speaker uses anthropomorphism, imbuing the ass with human capabilities of thought and deceit, which makes the poem more engaging and relatable to the reader.

The tone of the poem is light-hearted and satirical, masterfully balancing the serious underlying message with a playful surface. This is further emphasized by the rhythmic and rhyming scheme typical of limericks, which adds a sense of levity to the narrative. The final line, "Imposters Generally Forget Something," serves as a punchline, but also a moral summary, illustrating the inevitable unmasking of pretense. The poet effectively uses the animal characters and the structure of the limerick to deliver a timeless lesson about the pitfalls of dishonesty, reminding readers that truth always reveals itself in the end.

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.