The Fir & The Bramble

By Walter Crane

Fable
    The Fir-tree looked down on the Bramble.     "Poor thing, only able to scramble     About on the ground."     Just then an axe' sound     Made the Fir wish himself but a Bramble.     Pride Of Place Has Its Disadvantages

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This limerick explores themes of pride, perspective, and the inevitable fall from grace. The Fir-tree and Bramble serve as allegorical figures, symbolizing different social statuses. The fir-tree, standing tall and looking down upon the humble bramble, embodies superiority and pride. However, the sudden axe sound flips the narrative, instilling fear in the fir-tree and making it envy the safety of the bramble's lowly position.

The tone of the poem is cautionary and reflective, provoking thoughts about the precariousness of high status and the safety found in humility. The limerick form, typically used for humorous or nonsensical poems, is here employed effectively to convey a serious message, giving the poem a surprising depth. The use of personification further adds to the charm and accessibility of the poem. The ending line, an aphoristic moral, encapsulates the lesson neatly: 'Pride Of Place Has Its Disadvantages'. This poem is a beautifully subtle critique of social hierarchy and the dangers of pride, all wrapped up in a simple, easily digestible limerick.

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.