The Man and the Lightning
Story Summary
In "The Man and the Lightning," a simple short story with moral undertones, a politician on the campaign trail is overtaken by Lightning, which boasts of its impressive speed. The Man Running for Office counters that while Lightning may be swift, his endurance allows him to continue on his journey, illustrating a profound lesson about perseverance over mere speed. This short tale serves as a reminder that simple lessons from stories often highlight the value of resilience in the face of challenges.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
Persistence and endurance often outweigh momentary speed and power.
Historical Context
This story explores themes of ambition and perseverance, drawing on the age-old motif of the struggle between human aspiration and the forces of nature. It echoes tales from folklore and mythology, such as the fables attributed to Aesop, which often highlight the contrast between fleeting success and enduring effort. The use of personification in the interaction between the Man and Lightning symbolizes the eternal human quest for power and recognition, often juxtaposed with the inevitability of natural or cosmic forces.
Our Editors Opinion
This story underscores the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of immediate challenges, a lesson that resonates in today's fast-paced world where instant success often overshadows sustained effort. For instance, in a competitive job market, a candidate who continuously refines their skills and networks over time may ultimately achieve career success, proving that consistent effort can outlast fleeting advantages.
You May Also Like
A Call to Quit
In "A Call to Quit," a minister, facing dwindling attendance, performs an eye-catching handstand during his sermon, hoping to revitalize interest in his church. However, his unconventional approach leads to his dismissal in favor of a circus performer, reflecting a shift towards modern theological trends. This short tale serves as an impactful moral story about the challenges of adapting to change and the often unexpected consequences of seeking attention in educational moral stories.
Two Footpads
In the simple short story "Two Footpads," two criminals share their misadventures while boasting about their robberies at a roadside resort. The First Footpad proudly claims to have robbed the Chief of Police, while the Second Footpad reveals a twist in his tale, admitting that he lost some of his own stolen loot when he attempted to rob the United States District Attorney. This quick read serves as a moral lesson about the unforeseen consequences of crime, reminding readers of the folly in boasting about such exploits.
The Fisherman and His Nets
In "The Fisherman and His Nets," a skilled fisherman captures a significant haul of fish, showcasing his expertise in handling his net. However, despite his success with the larger fish, the smaller ones slip through the meshes and escape, illustrating the limitations of his efforts. This timeless moral story highlights the importance of recognizing what may be lost in the pursuit of success, making it a valuable addition to popular and educational moral stories.
Related Collections
Other names for this story
"Electrifying Ambitions, Lightning Strikes Ambition, Race Against Thunder, The Candidate's Challenge, Fast vs. Furious Campaign, Lightning's Lesson, Power of Perseverance, Office Run Showdown"
Did You Know?
This story highlights the theme of persistence versus fleeting power, illustrating how enduring effort can outlast even the most dramatic forces, such as lightning, suggesting that true achievement often lies in resilience rather than speed or immediate impact.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.