Death And The Woodman.[1]

By Jean de La Fontaine

Fable
     A poor wood-chopper, with his fagot load,      Whom weight of years, as well as load, oppress'd,      Sore groaning in his smoky hut to rest,      Trudged wearily along his homeward road.      At last his wood upon the ground he throws,      And sits him down to think o'er all his woes.      To joy a stranger, since his hapless birth,      What poorer wretch upon this rolling earth?      No bread sometimes, and ne'er a moment's rest;      Wife, children, soldiers, landlords, public tax,      All wait the swinging of his old, worn axe,      And paint the veriest picture of a man unblest.      On Death he calls. Forthwith that monarch grim      Appears, and asks what he should do for him.      'Not much, indeed; a little help I lack -      To put these fagots on my back.'      Death ready stands all ills to cure;      But let us not his cure invite.      Than die, 'tis better to endure, -      Is both a manly maxim and a right.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem, with its stark portrayal of a woodcutter's hardships, explores themes of poverty, struggle, and endurance. It is steeped in the melancholy tone of resignation, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's life fraught with woes. The structure is straightforward, employing regular rhythm and rhyme to provide a steady narrative progression.

The poem utilizes the literary device of personification, representing Death as a 'monarch grim.' The encounter between the woodcutter and Death is poignant, revealing the woodcutter's stoicism and his desire for relief rather than an end to life. This interaction, and the woodcutter's unexpected request, serves as a potent critique of the harsh realities of poverty.

The concluding lines shift the tone from despair to a more philosophical reflection, asserting the value of endurance over surrender. The phrase 'manly maxim' suggests traditional cultural expectations of stoicism and resilience in the face of adversity. This switch in tone underscores the poem's central message: life, no matter how difficult, is precious and should be preserved at all costs. The poem thus combines a vivid narrative with a profound commentary on human endurance and the inescapable hardships of life.

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.