The story revolves around a young boy who believes that whatever he does is always right. He is convinced of his own infallibility and refuses to listen to others' opinions or criticism. His parents try to correct him, but he becomes increasingly stubborn and arrogant. As the boy grows older, his behavior becomes more and more erratic. He starts to believe that he can do anything without consequences, and that everyone else is wrong. He begins to alienate himself from his friends and family, who are tired of his constant arguments and refusal to listen. The story takes a dark turn when the boy's parents try to discipline him for one of his many transgressions. The boy becomes enraged and lashes out at them, causing a rift in their relationship that cannot be repaired. In the end, the boy is left alone, isolated from those who care about him. He realizes too late that he was wrong all along, but it's too late to change his ways.
By Hans Christian Andersen · First published 1845 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Folk Tale, Humor