The Two Crabs

By Walter Crane

Fable
    "So awkward, so shambling a gait!"     Mrs Crab did her daughter berate,     Who rejoined, "It is true     I am backward; but you     Needed lessons in walking quite late."     Look At Home

Share & Analyze This Poem

Spread the beauty of poetry or dive deeper into analysis

Analyze This Poem

Discover the literary devices, structure, and deeper meaning

Create Image

Transform this poem into a beautiful shareable image

Copy to Clipboard

Save this poem for personal use or sharing offline

Share the Love of Poetry
More Poems
More Fables
Daily Poem

Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This limerick-style poem employs humor and wit to offer a light-hearted commentary on the theme of generational conflict and the universal human tendency to criticize others without self-reflection. The poem's structure follows the traditional AABBA rhyme scheme of a limerick, lending it a rhythmic, playful tone.

Beginning with the mother's criticism of her daughter's gait, the poem quickly turns the tables with the daughter's retort, a clever use of irony that serves to highlight the hypocrisy of the mother's complaint. This exchange between mother and daughter is an effective way of exploring the theme of self-awareness, urging readers to 'look at home' before passing judgement on others. The poem's language is simple yet evocative, using imagery that invites readers to visualize the characters and their awkward movements, further enhancing the humor and charm of the piece.

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.