Author: Jean de La Fontaine
[1] A bird, with plumd arrow shot, In dying case deplored her lot: 'Alas!' she cried, 'the anguish of the thought! This ruin partly by myself was brought! Hard-hearted men! from us to borrow What wings to us the fatal arrow! But mock us not, ye cruel race, For you must often take our place.' The work of half the human brothers Is making arms against the others.
Type of Poem: Fable
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This poem, a poignant critique of humanity's self-destructive tendencies, employs the metaphor of a bird shot by an arrow, a tool ironically made from its own feathers. The bird's lament in the first half of the poem underscores the bitter irony of its situation. The tone is one of sorrow and regret, punctuated by the bird's exclamation, 'Alas!' and its dying realization that it has contributed to its own demise.
The poem's structure is neat, comprised of two distinct stanzas, each with its unique focus. The first stanza focuses on the bird's plight and its indictment of humanity, while the second shifts to a more generalized commentary on human conflict. The poem's final two lines act as a sobering punchline, encapsulating the theme of self-destruction and the cyclical nature of violence.
The poet effectively uses the literary device of personification, giving the dying bird a voice to express its despair and critique. This, coupled with the irony inherent in the bird's situation, enhances the emotional impact of the poem. The poem serves as a sharp reminder of the tragic irony often present in acts of violence and conflict -- the tools of our destruction are often borrowed from ourselves.
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.