The Farmer's Treasure

Author: Walter Crane

    "Dig deeply, my Sons! through this field!
    There's a Treasure"--he died: unrevealed
    The spot where 'twas laid,
    They dug as he bade;
    And the Treasure was found in the yield.

    Productive Labour Is The Only Source Of Wealth
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Type of Poem: Fable

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem revolves around the themes of labor, the passage of knowledge, and the recognition of true wealth. The poet employs a simple, narrative style to impart a profound lesson, using a structure reminiscent of the traditional limerick, characterized by its five-line, AABBA rhyme scheme. The tone is instructional, echoing the lessons passed from generation to generation.

The poem begins with a father's dying instructions to his sons, employing the metaphor of treasure hunting. The treasure, however, remains unspecified, leading to a sense of mystery. This mystery resolves in the last line, where the poet reveals the true treasure to be the yield of the sons' labor. This is further emphasized by the line "Productive Labour Is The Only Source Of Wealth", which serves as a moral, summing up the poem's message. This is an example of the didactic style in poetry, where the aim is to teach or instruct, specifically a moral lesson. In terms of literary devices, the poet uses the technique of enjambment to maintain the flow and momentum of the narrative. The overall message is a timeless one, reminding readers of the importance and value of hard work.

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.