Author: Jean de La Fontaine

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[1]

     A bitch, that felt her time approaching,
     And had no place for parturition,
     Went to a female friend, and, broaching
     Her delicate condition,
     Got leave herself to shut
     Within the other's hut.
     At proper time the lender came
     Her little premises to claim.
     The bitch crawl'd meekly to the door,
     And humbly begg'd a fortnight more.
     Her little pups, she said, could hardly walk.
     In short, the lender yielded to her talk.
     The second term expired; the friend had come
     To take possession of her house and home.
     The bitch, this time, as if she would have bit her,
     Replied, 'I'm ready, madam, with my litter,
     To go when you can turn me out.'
     Her pups, you see, were fierce and stout.

     The creditor, from whom a villain borrows,
     Will fewer shillings get again than sorrows.
     If you have trusted people of this sort,
     You'll have to plead, and dun, and fight; in short,
     If in your house you let one step a foot,
     He'll surely step the other in to boot.

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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 showcases a narrative driven by themes of deception, entitlement, and the inescapability of one's circumstances. The central characters are two dogs, their interaction serving as an allegorical exploration of financial and social relationships. The poem's tone is satirical, critiquing those who exploit the generosity of others.

Structurally, the poem employs rhymed couplets, a common form in satirical poetry, which adds a lightness to the serious theme, reinforcing the satirical intent. The use of animals as characters is a significant literary device, allowing the poet to explore human behaviors and social issues from a seemingly neutral standpoint. The poem ends with a moral lesson, a common feature in fables, warning readers about the dangers of lending and trusting in deceptive individuals. The language used is relatively simple and direct, making the poem's message accessible to a wide audience. The poem's humor, despite its cautionary message, makes it engaging while prompting readers to reflect on their own experiences and relationships.