Poetry
Poetry
By the Curving Seashore Stands a Green Oak
A magical poetic journey into a world of wonders, where the learned cat tells tales, and around him come to life mermaids, wood goblins, knights, and Baba Yaga. This is the famous fairy-tale prologue, filled with images from Russian folk legends and magic.
The Grasshopper and the Ant
A moral fable about a carefree Grasshopper who sang and made merry all summer, but in winter was left without food or warmth. In her conversation with the hardworking Ant, the moral is revealed about the importance of work, foresight, and responsibility.
The Pig Beneath the Oak
A moral fable about a pig that eats acorns but does not understand that it is harming the very tree that gives it food. The story mocks ingratitude and ignorance, reminding us of the value of knowledge and respect for the source of good.
The Elephant and the Pug
A famous fable by Ivan Krylov about a little Pug who barks loudly at a huge Elephant in order to seem important and strong. The story humorously shows how noise and showy behavior can create a false impression.
The Quartet
A mischievous Monkey, a Donkey, a Goat, and a Bear decided to play a quartet, but their music did not work out at all. This funny fable shows that desire alone is not enough: any task requires skill, an ear for it, and hard work.