The Fox Without A Tail

Author: Walter Crane

    Said Fox, minus tail in a trap,
    "My friends! here's a lucky mishap:
    Give your tails a short lease!"
    But the foxes weren't geese,
    And none followed the fashion of trap.

    Yet Some Fashions Have No Better Reason
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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 is a succinct and clever fable that uses humor and irony to explore themes of individuality, conformity, and the absurdity of blindly following trends. The narrative follows a fox who loses his tail in a trap and then tries to convince the other foxes to do the same, arguing it's a new fashion trend. The other foxes, however, are not fooled, pointing to their wisdom and ability to think independently.

The poem's tone is light-hearted and satirical, using the limerick form—a structured, five-line verse typically used for humorous or nonsense verse—to accentuate its playful critique of societal conformity. The use of anthropomorphism, attributing human qualities to animals, is cleverly employed to deliver its message. The last line acts as a moral to the story, a common element in fables, emphasizing the absurdity of following trends without understanding their purpose or value. The poem, while humorous, also challenges readers to question the societal norms and trends they follow, asserting the importance of individual thinking and decision making.

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.