The Swollen Fox

Summary

The story revolves around a fox who, driven by hunger, sneaks into an oak tree where shepherds have left bread and meat. After devouring the food, the fox becomes too bloated to escape the way he entered. His predicament leads to cries and lamentations, attracting the attention of another fox. Upon understanding the situation, the second fox advises that the trapped fox must wait until he returns to his original size to leave the hollow. This tale highlights themes of greed and the consequences of overindulgence, suggesting that patience and restraint are essential when dealing with desires.

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A very hungry fox, seeing some bread and meat left by shepherds in the hollow of an oak, crept into the hole and made a hearty meal. When he finished, he was so full that he was not able to get out, and began to groan and lament his fate. Another Fox passing by heard his cries, and coming up, inquired the cause of his complaining. On learning what had happened, he said to him, “Ah, you will have to remain there, my friend, until you become such as you were when you crept in, and then you will easily get out.”