The Dog That Dropped The Substance For The Shadow

By Jean de La Fontaine

Fable
[1]      This world is full of shadow-chasers,      Most easily deceived.      Should I enumerate these racers,      I should not be believed.      I send them all to Aesop's dog,      Which, crossing water on a log,      Espied the meat he bore, below;      To seize its image, let it go;      Plunged in; to reach the shore was glad,      With neither what he hoped, nor what he'd had.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem presents a cautionary tale about the dangers of illusion and greed, drawing on the familiar Aesop's fable of the dog and its reflection for its central metaphor. The theme revolves around the human tendency to chase after illusions ("shadow-chasers") and lose sight of real, tangible values ("With neither what he hoped, nor what he'd had"). The tone of the poem is didactic and somewhat cynical, employing the use of irony to highlight the folly of these "shadow-chasers."

The structure of the poem, with its tight and consistent rhyme scheme, underscores the moral lesson it aims to convey. This classic form gives the poem a universal and timeless quality, suggesting that its message is relevant across different cultures and eras. Additionally, the poet’s use of imagery and metaphor is striking. The image of the dog losing its meat in pursuit of its reflection is a powerful visual representation of the poem's central theme. It effectively illustrates the peril of being consumed by greed and vanity, which ultimately leads to loss and disappointment. This poem serves as a reminder to appreciate what we have and to remain grounded in reality.

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.