Rattlesnake Mountain Fable I
The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a rabbit characterized by a whimsical and naive demeanor. The rabbit gazes at the sky, perceiving it as a serene and inviting space, embodying a longing for freedom and boldness. In a moment of aspiration, he leaps towards the sky, only to meet a tragic fate when he collides with a snake. The snake, initially a predator, experiences a profound transformation after consuming the rabbit. The act of eating the rabbit instills in the snake a sense of introspection and concern, as the memory of the rabbit's dreams lingers within him. The rabbit's demise serves as a catalyst for the snake's emotional turmoil, leading him to reflect on the fragility of life and the weight of his actions. The imagery of the rabbit's lifeless body, scattered on a rock, symbolizes lost potential and unfulfilled dreams, leaving an indelible mark on the snake. The story explores themes of innocence, the consequences of predation, and the haunting nature of guilt, ultimately presenting a poignant commentary on existence and the interconnectedness of life and death.
By Maxwell Bodenheim · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Fable, Literary Fiction · 238 words
First lines
Rounded to a wide eyed clownishness Crowned by the shifting bravado Of his long, brown ears, The rabbit peeked at the sky. To him, the sky seemed an angelic Pasture stripped to phantom tranquility, Where one could nibble thoughtfully. He longed to leave his mild furtiveness And speak to a boldness puzzled by his flesh. With one long circle of despairing grace He flashed into the air, Leaping toward his heaven. But down he crashed against a snake Who ate him with a meditative interest. From that day on the snake was filled With little, meek whispers of concern. The crushed and peaceful rabbit's dream Cast a groping hush upon his blood. He curled inertly on a rock, In cryptic, wilted savageness. In the end, his dry, grey body Was scattered out upon the rock, Like a story that could not be told.
What this Textopian page supports
Rattlesnake Mountain Fable I is listed on Textopian as a fable by Maxwell Bodenheim, dated 1921 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Fable
- Author: Maxwell Bodenheim
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fable, Literary Fiction, Fantasy, Allegory
- Length: 238 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work employs lyrical language, imagery, and metaphor typical of poetic forms.
- Fable — The narrative features anthropomorphized animals and conveys a moral lesson, characteristic of fables.
- Literary Fiction — The text explores deep themes of existence and introspection, aligning with literary fiction's focus on character and thematic depth.
- Fantasy — The presence of talking animals and surreal elements suggests a fantastical setting.
Tags
Fiction · Poetry · American Literature · Modernism · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Mythology · Allegory · Psychological Insight · Stream-of-Consciousness · Experimental Writing · Free Verse