How Sun, Moon, and Wind Went out to Dinner
Three celestial beings, Sun, Moon, and Wind, embark on a dinner outing with their relatives, Thunder and Lightning, leaving their mother, a distant Star, waiting for their return. Sun and Wind indulge in the feast without considering their mother, while Moon discreetly saves a portion of each dish for her. Upon returning, Sun and Wind admit they brought nothing for their mother, prioritizing their enjoyment over her needs. In contrast, Moon presents a lavish meal she saved for her mother. The Star, disappointed by Sun and Wind's selfishness, curses them. Sun is condemned to emit scorching rays that will cause discomfort and disdain among humans. Wind is fated to blow hot and dry, causing suffering to living things. However, Moon is rewarded for her thoughtfulness; she is blessed with cool, calming light that is cherished by all. The narrative illustrates themes of selfishness versus selflessness, emphasizing the consequences of one's actions and the importance of caring for family. The distinct characteristics of Sun, Moon, and Wind are explained through their experiences during the dinner, reinforcing moral lessons about generosity and consideration for others.
By Joseph Jacobs · First published 1894 · Genre: Children's Literature, Fable, Fantasy · 526 words
First lines
One day Sun, Moon, and Wind went out to dine with their uncle and aunts Thunder and Lightning. Their mother (one of the most distant Stars you see far up in the sky) waited alone for her children's return.
Now both Sun and Wind were greedy and selfish. They enjoyed the great feast that had been prepared for them, without a thought of saving any of it to take home to their mother -- but the gentle Moon did not forget her. Of every dainty dish that was brought round, she placed a small portion under one of her beautiful long fingernails, that Star might also have a share in the treat.
What this Textopian page supports
How Sun, Moon, and Wind Went out to Dinner is listed on Textopian as a short story by Joseph Jacobs, dated 1894 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Joseph Jacobs
- Date: 1894 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Fable, Fantasy, Mythology, Moral Tale
- Length: 526 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for How Sun, Moon, and Wind Went out to Dinner by Joseph Jacobs
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Lion And The Crane by Joseph Jacobs
- The Fox And The Geese by Jacob And Wilhelm Grimm
- Buckwheat by Hans Christian Andersen
- The Boy Who Had A Moon On His Forehead And A Star On His Chin by Joseph Jacobs
- Jack The Giant Killer by O. Henry
- Mr Woodchuck by L. Frank Baum
Genres
- Children's Literature — The story is designed for a young audience, featuring anthropomorphized celestial bodies and moral lessons.
- Fable — The narrative conveys a moral lesson about selfishness and thoughtfulness, characteristic of fables.
- Fantasy — The characters are personified natural elements, creating a fantastical setting.
- Mythology — The story explains natural phenomena through mythological storytelling.
Tags
Folklore · Short Story · Fantasy · Adventure · Humor · Satire · Mythology · Fairy Tale · Children's Literature · Anthropomorphic Characters · Animal Characters · Wind