The Charcoal Burner and the Fuller
Story Summary
In the quick moral story "The Charcoal Burner and the Fuller," a charcoal-burner invites his friend, a fuller, to live with him to save on expenses. However, the fuller declines, explaining that their trades are incompatible, as the charcoal-burner's work would negate his efforts to whiten fabric. This culturally significant tale emphasizes that individuals with opposing natures or interests may struggle to coexist harmoniously, making it a valuable lesson in small moral stories for kids.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that incompatible traits or lifestyles cannot coexist harmoniously.
Historical Context
This story, which reflects themes of compatibility and the natural order of relationships, is reminiscent of Aesop's fables, which often convey moral lessons through allegorical characters. It highlights the idea that individuals with opposing traits or values may struggle to coexist harmoniously, a theme prevalent in various cultures’ folklore and literature. The phrase "like will draw like" resonates with the broader philosophical discussions around human relationships and societal roles found in ancient texts and proverbs.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who share our values and goals, as incompatible lifestyles can hinder personal growth and harmony. For instance, a person striving for a healthier lifestyle may find it challenging to maintain their resolve if they live with someone who frequently indulges in unhealthy habits, illustrating how differing influences can impact one's journey.
You May Also Like
The Dog the Cock and the Fox
In this engaging animal story with a moral, a Dog and a Cock, great friends, seek shelter in a thick wood. When a hungry Fox attempts to trick the Cock, he cleverly leads the Fox to the Dog's hiding place, resulting in the Fox's demise. This concise moral story illustrates the value of friendship and cleverness, making it a fitting addition to short story collections with moral lessons for personal growth.
The Nightside of Character
A successful editor seeks to marry his old friend's daughter, but after revealing a scrapbook detailing his questionable character, he faces a dramatic fallout. In a twist reminiscent of concise moral stories and fable stories with moral lessons, he receives a rejection and is subsequently committed to an asylum for his indiscretion, highlighting the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships.
Alarm and Pride
In "Alarm and Pride," two personified virtues lament their exhaustion from being unfairly associated with the misdeeds of politicians, who exploit their names to deflect blame. As they reflect on their plight, reminiscent of life-changing stories with moral lessons, they are called back to duty for a political event featuring a dubious nominee, highlighting the importance of integrity in a world filled with moral ambiguity. This inspirational short story serves as a modern fable, reminding readers of the consequences of allowing one's name to be misused in the pursuit of power.
Other names for this story
Neighbors in Contrast, The Charcoal and the Whitewash, Black and White Friendship, The Unlikely Housemates, Opposites in Trade, The Charcoal Burner's Dilemma, A Tale of Two Trades, The Fuller and the Burner
Did You Know?
The story illustrates the theme of incompatibility between opposing forces, highlighting how different lifestyles or values can hinder collaboration and harmony, as seen in the Fuller and the Charcoal-Burner's contrasting trades. This notion of "like will draw like" emphasizes the importance of aligning with those who share similar principles for a successful partnership.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.