Reading Notes:Aesop's Fables (Jacobs), Part B

Reading Notes:Aesop's Fables (Jacobs), Part B

(Statue of Hercules: photo by FelixMittermeier)

The Tree and the Reed by Joseph Jacobs (1894)

I particularly enjoy the idea being expressed in this short story. The tree questions the reed about why it does not plant itself into the ground and raise its head higher. The reed believes it is safer by staying low, which is shown to be true once the tree is later uprooted by a storm. I agree with the idea that keeping a low profile is sometimes the best course of action, and I think writing another story that continues with this idea would be interesting. 

Hercules and the Wagoner by Joseph Jacobs (1894)

I like the purpose of Hercules in this story. The Wagoner begs for help from Hercules after his wagon gets stuck in a mire. The Wagoner seems to do nothing himself before asking for help, so Hercules shows up and tells him to try to help himself first. This is another idea that I like very much, and it is similar to the idea I expressed in the story I wrote last week. I think this is still an idea that could be further expanded upon.

The Man and His Mother by Joseph Jacobs (1894)

This story surprised me, and I think the way the surprise was written is interesting and something I could consider for future stories. The man is supposed to die for his crimes, and asks to speak to his mother one last time before he dies. Normally, most people would probably expect he requested this because he cares deeply for his mother and wants to express that along with some parting words. Instead, he bites her and says she is the reason he has a habit of stealing. I found this to be quite interesting because before reading that part, I would not have predicted those events based on the preceding lines. As for the idea being expressed, I only half agree with it but I think it provides material to consider for future stories. 

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