The Lion Grown Old

Fable by Jean De La Fontaine Collection The FablesThemes Animals, DeathPeriod 17th century

The Lion, terror of the forests,
Bowed down by years and weeping for his ancient prowess,
Was at last attacked by his own subjects,
Made strong by his weakness.
The Horse, drawing near, gives him a kick;
The Wolf a bite, the Ox a thrust of horn.
The wretched Lion, languishing, sad, and glum,
Can barely roar, crippled by age.
He awaits his fate, without making any complaint;
When, seeing even the Ass come running to his den:
“Ah! this is too much, he tells him; I was quite willing to die;
But it is to die twice to suffer your blows.”

Jean de La Fontaine

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