The reed and the olive tree were arguing over their endurance, their strength, their steadfastness. The olive reproached the reed for its weakness and the ease with which it yielded to every wind. The reed kept silent and said not a word. Before long the wind began to blow violently. The reed, shaken and bent by the gusts, came through unharmed; but the olive, resisting the wind, was snapped by its force.
Those who yield to circumstances and to force fare better than those who pit themselves against the more powerful.
Nº 30The Fox with the Swollen BellyA hungry fox spotted some bread and meat that shepherds had left in the hollow of an oak. He crept in and ate it all; but his belly swelled so that…Read the fable →
Nº 52The Middle-Aged Man and His Two MistressesA middle-aged man had two mistresses, one young and one old. The one who was getting on in years, ashamed to be involved with a lover younger than…Read the fable →
Nº 53The Shipwrecked ManA rich Athenian was sailing with other passengers. A violent storm arose, and the ship capsized. While the other passengers tried to save themselves…Read the fable →