The Gnat And The Bull

Summary

This short story features a Gnat and a Bull, highlighting themes of self-importance and perception. A Gnat lands on a Bull's horn and, after a brief rest, prepares to leave. Before taking off, the Gnat apologizes to the Bull for using its horn as a resting place, assuming that the Bull might be relieved to see him go. However, the Bull responds indifferently, revealing that he did not notice the Gnat's presence. The story illustrates how often small or seemingly insignificant individuals may overestimate their impact on others, prompting readers to reflect on humility and awareness of their true influence in relation to those around them.

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A Gnat flew over the meadow with much buzzing for so small a creature and settled on the tip of one of the horns of a Bull. After he had rested a short time, he made ready to fly away. But before he left he begged the Bull’s pardon for having used his horn for a resting place.

“You must be very glad to have me go now,” he said.

“It’s all the same to me,” replied the Bull. “I did not even know you were there.”