The Acorn and the Pumpkin.

By Jean de La Fontaine

Fable
    Once there was a country bumpkin     Who observed a great big pumpkin     To a slender stem attached;     While upon an oak tree nourished,     Little acorns grew and flourished.     "Bah!" said he. "That's badly matched."     "If, despite my humble station,     I'd a hand in this Creation,     Pumpkins on the oaks would be;     And the acorn, light and little,     On this pumpkin stem so brittle     Would be placed by clever Me."     Then, fatigued with so much thought, he     Rest beneath the oak tree sought. He     Soon in slumber found repose     But, alas! An acorn, falling     On the spot where he lay sprawling,     Hit him - plump! - Upon the nose.     Up he jumped - a wiser bumpkin.     "Gosh!" he said. "Suppose a pumpkin     Came a-fallin' on my face!     After all, if I had made things,     I'll allow that I'm afraid things     Might be some what out of place."

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This delightful narrative poem is a clever exploration of the themes of wisdom, humility, and the acceptance of natural order. The central character, a self-declared 'country bumpkin,' initially questions the design of the natural world, proposing his own ideas which he believes are superior. This serves as a light-hearted critique of human arrogance and ignorance, particularly in relation to the natural world's complex design.

The tone of the poem is jovial and satirical, employing a simple AABB rhyme scheme that conveys the story in a playful, accessible manner. The structure progresses from the bumpkin's initial observations, to his ambitious aspirations of re-creation, to his ultimate realization and acceptance of the world's existing order. The poet employs the literary device of ironic reversal to facilitate this transformation, as the bumpkin is hit on the nose by an acorn, making him realize the potential danger in his proposed design and leading him to a wiser understanding of nature's wisdom. The poem leaves the reader with a powerful message about humility and the importance of respecting the natural world, delivered in a charming, light-hearted manner.

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.