The Corn-Crake and his Mate
This work is a novella that explores the relationship between a Corn-Crake and his mate through their interactions with nature and each other. The story revolves around the Corn-Crake's struggles to provide for his family, including finding food and protecting them from predators. His mate plays a crucial role in supporting him throughout these challenges. Through their experiences, the novella delves into themes of love, loyalty, and survival in the natural world. The narrative is characterized by its vivid descriptions of the Corn-Crake's habitat and his interactions with other animals. The work also touches on the idea that even in the midst of hardship, there can be moments of beauty and connection between living beings.
By Leo Tolstoy · Genre: Fable, Tragedy, Nature Writing · 248 words
First lines
A Corn-crake had made a nest in the meadow late in the year, and at mowing time his Mate was still sitting on her eggs. Early in the morning the peasants came to the meadow, took off the coats, whetted their scythes, and started one after another to mow down the grass and to put it down in rows. The Corn-crake flew up to see what the mowers were doing. When he saw a peasant swing his scythe and cut a snake in two, he rejoiced and flew back to his Mate and said:
"Don't fear the peasants! They have come to cut the snakes to pieces; they have given us no rest for quite awhile."
But his Mate said:
What this Textopian page supports
The Corn-Crake and his Mate is listed on Textopian as a fable by Leo Tolstoy, dated Date unknown.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Fable
- Author: Leo Tolstoy
- Date: Date unknown
- Language: English
- Genres: Fable, Tragedy, Nature Writing, Allegory, Short Story
- Length: 248 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Reeds And The Olive Tree by Leo Tolstoy
- The Two Horses by Leo Tolstoy
- The Two Peasants by Leo Tolstoy
- The Birds In The Net by Leo Tolstoy
- The Stag And The Vineyard by Leo Tolstoy
Genres
- Fable — The narrative features anthropomorphized animals and conveys a moral lesson about the dangers of human actions on nature.
- Tragedy — The story depicts a tragic event involving loss and the harsh realities of life, emphasizing themes of vulnerability and fate.
- Nature Writing — The setting and focus on the natural world highlight the relationship between humans and wildlife, showcasing the impact of human activity on the environment.
- Allegory — The characters and events symbolize broader themes of survival, conflict, and the consequences of human intervention.
Tags
Fiction · Novella · Russian Literature · 19th Century · Realism · Nature · Relationships · Marriage · Love · Conflict · Family · Social Class