Author: Jean de La Fontaine

---

[1]

     Dame Nature, our respected mother,
     Ordains that we should aid each other.

     The ass this ordinance neglected,
     Though not a creature ill-affected.
     Along the road a dog and he
     One master follow'd silently.
     Their master slept: meanwhile, the ass
     Applied his nippers to the grass,
     Much pleased in such a place to stop,
     Though there no thistle he could crop.
     He would not be too delicate,
     Nor spoil a dinner for a plate,
     Which, but for that, his favourite dish,
     Were all that any ass could wish.

     'My dear companion,' Towser said, - 
     ''Tis as a starving dog I ask it, - 
     Pray lower down your loaded basket,
     And let me get a piece of bread.'
     No answer - not a word! - indeed,
     The truth was, our Arcadian steed[2]
     Fear'd lest, for every moment's flight,
     His nimble teeth should lose a bite.
     At last, 'I counsel you,' said he, 'to wait
     Till master is himself awake,
     Who then, unless I much mistake,
     Will give his dog the usual bait.'
     Meanwhile, there issued from the wood
     A creature of the wolfish brood,
     Himself by famine sorely pinch'd.
     At sight of him the donkey flinch'd,
     And begg'd the dog to give him aid.
     The dog budged not, but answer made, - 
     'I counsel thee, my friend, to run,
     Till master's nap is fairly done;
     There can, indeed, be no mistake,
     That he will very soon awake;
     Till then, scud off with all your might;
     And should he snap you in your flight,
     This ugly wolf, - why, let him feel
     The greeting of your well-shod heel.
     I do not doubt, at all, but that
     Will be enough to lay him flat.'
     But ere he ceased it was too late;
     The ass had met his cruel fate.

     Thus selfishness we reprobate.

---

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 is a fable that uses anthropomorphized animals to explore the themes of selfishness, mutual aid, and consequences of inaction. The central characters, an ass and a dog, are used to illustrate the moral lesson that neglecting others in their time of need can lead to one's own downfall.

The structure of the poem follows a traditional narrative arc, progressing from initial setting to conflict, rising action, climax, and resolution. The use of rhymed couplets and a consistent meter gives the poem a rhythmic flow, making it enjoyable to read and emphasizing its storytelling aspect.

The tone of the poem is conversational and slightly ironic, with the use of understated humor to highlight the foolishness and shortsightedness of the ass. The poet uses personification, giving the animals human characteristics, to further engage the reader and underscore the moral message. The allusion to 'Dame Nature' in the opening lines sets up a universal context, indicating that the lesson is applicable to all creatures.

In the end, the poem serves as a critique of selfish behavior and a reminder of the importance of community and interdependence. It encourages readers to consider the potential consequences of their actions, not only for themselves but also for others around them. The closing line, "Thus selfishness we reprobate," gives a clear summation of the poem's moral and thematic focus.