The Bear & The Bees

By Walter Crane

Fable
    "Their honey I'll have when I please;     Who cares for such small things as Bees?"     Said the Bear; but the stings     Of these very small things     Left him not very much at his ease.     The Weakest United May Be Strong To Avenge

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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 charming yet profound exploration of the themes of hubris, underestimation, and the power of unity. The tone is playful and light-hearted, but beneath the whimsy, there's a candid commentary on the consequences of overlooking the seemingly insignificant. The narrative centres around a bear who dismisses bees as unimportant, only to be left uncomfortable by their stings, highlighting the potential strength of the underestimated.

The poem's structure is a classic limerick, characterized by its five-line, AABBA rhyme scheme, and its playful, rhythmic meter adds to the overall jovial tone. The final line, "The Weakest United May Be Strong To Avenge," stands alone as a proverbial statement, underlining the central message with a more solemn note. This shift in tone serves to emphasize the moral of the story, which is the power of unity among the seemingly weak. The poem uses the bear and the bees as an allegory to illustrate this, making it an accessible and enjoyable read with a thought-provoking message.

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.