THE OLD MAN, THE DONKEY AND THE PACK SADDLES

Summary

The fable critiques blind obedience and highlights resignation to fate, questioning the value of resistance when outcomes remain unchanged. It satirizes human fear versus pragmatic acceptance, revealing deeper themes of powerlessness and the illusion of control.

Text

A cowardly old man had led his donkey out to pasture.

At the unexpected sound of the enemy approaching, the old man was stricken with terror and tried to persuade the donkey to run away so that he wouldn't be captured.

The donkey obstinately asked the old man, 'Tell me, do you suppose the victor will make me carry two pack saddles instead of one?'

The old man said he did not think so.

'I rest my case,' concluded the donkey. 'What difference does it make who my master is, if I always carry one saddle at a time?'

THE OLD MAN, THE DONKEY AND THE PACK SADDLES - Aesop's Fables ｜ Audiobook