Author: Jean de La Fontaine
Once upon a time there were two dogs, one named Lurcher and the other Csar. They were brothers; handsome, well-built, and plucky, and descended from dogs who were famous in their day. These two brothers, falling into the hands of different masters, found their destinies likewise in different spheres; for whilst one haunted the forests, the other lurched about a kitchen. The names to which they now answered were not, however, the names that were first given them. The influence of each one's career upon his nature brought about a new name and a new reputation; for Csar's nature was improved and strengthened by the life he led, whilst Lurcher's was made more and more despicable by a degraded existence. A scullion named him Lurcher; but the other dog received his noble name on account of his life of high adventure. He had held many a stag at bay, killed many a hare, and otherwise risen to the position of a Csar among dogs. Care was taken that he should not mate indiscriminately, so that his descendants' blood should not degenerate. On the other hand, poor Lurcher bestowed his affections wherever he would and his brood became populous. He was the progenitor of all turn-spits in France; a variety which became common enough to form at last a race in themselves. They show more readiness to flee than to attack, and are the very antipodes of the Csars. We do not always follow our ancestors, nor even resemble our fathers. Want of care, the flight of time, a thousand things, cause us to degenerate. Ah! how many, Csars, failing to cultivate their best nature and their gifts, become Lurchers!
Type of Poem: Fable
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: The poem tells a tale of two dogs, Lurcher and Csar, serving as a metaphor for the human condition and societal expectations. It explores themes of heritage, destiny, reputation, and the effects of one's environment on one's character. The tone is reflective and somewhat critical, highlighting the stark contrast between the two dogs' lives and their subsequent reputations.
The structure of the poem, while narrative, has an allegorical feel. Each dog represents different societal roles and outcomes: Csar as the noble, disciplined product of careful breeding and Lurcher as the common, degraded result of neglect and indulgence. This dichotomy is a potent commentary on societal classes and the importance placed on lineage and reputation. The poem uses the devices of personification and metaphor skillfully, assigning human characteristics and societal roles to the dogs, making their stories more relatable.
The last stanza serves as a poignant reminder of the poem's central theme: the fluidity of destiny and the power of personal choices. Despite our lineage or societal expectations, the poem suggests that it's our actions and decisions that ultimately shape our character and destiny. The poem ends on a cautionary note, warning of the potential "degeneration" that can occur when we fail to cultivate our best nature and gifts. This ending, while somber, leaves the reader with a thought-provoking message about personal responsibility and the power of choice.
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:
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.