Aesop

The Dolphins, the Whales, and the Sprat

Summary

This story illustrates a conflict between Dolphins and Whales, who engage in a heated battle against each other. Amidst their struggle, a small fish known as a Sprat offers to mediate their dispute if allowed to serve as an umpire. However, the Dolphins reject the Sprat's offer, expressing their preference to continue their fight rather than accept any interference in their affairs. The narrative underscores themes of pride, stubbornness, and the reluctance to accept help from those perceived as insignificant or inferior, highlighting the consequences of refusing mediation or outside assistance during a conflict.

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The Dolphins and Whales waged a fierce war with each other. When the battle was at its height, a Sprat lifted its head out of the waves and said that he would reconcile their differences if they would accept him as an umpire. One of the Dolphins replied, “We would far rather be destroyed in our battle with each other than admit any interference from you in our affairs.”

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