The Dove And The Ant.

By Jean de La Fontaine

Fable
    An Ant who in a brook would drink     Fell off the bank. He tried     To swim, and felt his courage sink -     This ocean seemed so wide.     But for a dove who flew above     He would have drowned and died.     The friendly Dove within her beak     A bridge of grass-stem bore:     On this the Ant, though worn and weak.     Contrived to reach the shore     Said he: "The tact of this kind act     I'll cherish evermore."     Behold! A barefoot wretch went by     With slingshot in his hand.     Said he: "You'll make a pigeon pie     That will be kind of grand."     He meant to murder the gentle bird -     Who did not understand.     The Ant then stung him on the heel     (So quick to see the sling).     He turned his head, and missed a meal:     The pigeon pie took wing.     And so the Dove lived on to love -     Beloved by everything.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a delightful, narrative verse that combines elements of fable and moral lesson, hinged on themes of kindness, reciprocity, and the interconnectedness of all lives. The poet employs the use of anthropomorphism, attributing human traits to the Ant and the Dove, turning them into empathetic characters, and thereby, making the poem accessible to a wide range of readers.

The tone of the poem is light, yet it is underscored by a sense of urgency and drama, particularly in the depiction of the Ant's struggle and the Dove's looming danger. The poet's structural choices of consistent rhymes and rhythm add to the captivating charm of the piece, while also guiding the reader through the narrative. The poem also notably makes use of irony with the would-be bird hunter being thwarted by the smallest of creatures, further highlighting the poem's central message of the power and value of kindness and interdependence. In essence, the poem underscores that no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted and that we all have roles to play in the larger tapestry of life.

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.