Library / Fantastic Fables

An Optimist

A fable by Ambrose Bierce

Satire for older readers

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An Optimist

Two frogs found themselves in the belly of a snake, contemplating their unfortunate situation.

"This is pretty hard luck," said one of the frogs, feeling disheartened by their predicament.

"Don't jump to conclusions," the other frog replied cheerfully. "We may be out of the wet, but at least we have board and lodging."

"With lodging, certainly," the first frog retorted. "But I don't see the board anywhere."

"You are such a croaker," the second frog explained with a hint of amusement. "We are, in fact, the board!"

In that moment, both frogs realized the irony of their situation and shared a bittersweet chuckle, accepting their fate together.

The moral
Adaptability and a positive outlook can help us find silver linings even in challenging situations.

Discussion questions

  1. What were the different perspectives of the two frogs, and how did they affect their situation?
  2. Can you think of a time when being optimistic helped you overcome a challenge?
  3. How can we apply the moral of this story in our daily lives?

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Good night.

Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane