The Caterpillar

Fable by Jean-Pierre Claris de Florian Period 18th century

One day, as various animals chatted among themselves,
they praised the silkworm greatly.
What talent, they said, this insect displays
in composing those threads so soft, so fine, so beautiful,
that make man’s wealth!
All extolled its work, exalted its skill.
A caterpillar alone found faults in it,
criticized it to the surprised animals,
would say but, and then if.
A fox exclaimed: gentlemen, that explains itself;
it is that madam spins too.

Florian

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