Library / Fantastic Fables

The Devoted Widow

A fable by Ambrose Bierce

Satire for older readers

Save
The Devoted Widow

A widow weeping at her husband's grave was approached by an engaging gentleman who, in a respectful manner, assured her that he had long entertained the most tender feelings for her.

"Wretch!" cried the widow. "Leave me this instant! Is this a time to talk to me of love?"

"I assure you, madam, that I had not intended to disclose my affection," the engaging gentleman humbly explained. "But the power of your beauty has overcome my discretion."

"You should see me when I have not been crying," said the widow.

The moral
True respect for someone's grief and situation is paramount, and that love should not overshadow sensitivity to their emotional state.

Discussion questions

  1. Why is it important to consider someone else's feelings before acting on your own?
  2. How can we show respect to those who are grieving?
  3. What lessons can we learn from the widow's reaction to the gentleman?

Advertisement

Read it in another language

Good night.

Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane