Author: Walter Crane

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    So the Mouse had Miss Lion for bride;
    Very great was his joy and his pride:
    But it chanced that she put
    On her husband her foot,
    And the weight was too much, so he died.

    One May Be Too Ambitious

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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: This poem is a delightful example of a limerick, a form of poetry known for its distinctive rhythm and often humorous or nonsensical content. The narrative explores the themes of ambition, power dynamics, and the dangers of mismatched unions through a whimsical tale of inter-species matrimony.

The primary characters, Miss Lion and the Mouse, are classic archetypes from fables, imbuing the poem with a touch of familiarity and whimsy. The tone is light and playful, even as it presents the tragic end of the mouse. This juxtaposition creates an interesting contrast, highlighting the inherent absurdity of their union and the fatal consequences of the mouse's overambition. The poem's structure follows the traditional format of a limerick, with a strict AABBA rhyme scheme and a rhythmic pattern that lends itself to the comedic timing of the punchline. The use of anthropomorphism as a literary device adds to the overall charm and humor of the piece, while also allowing for a deeper exploration of the poem's themes. Despite its brevity, the poem is rich in meaning, revealing a cautionary tale about the perils of reaching beyond one's means and the potential for power imbalances in relationships.