Rattlesnake Mountain Fable II
The narrative unfolds in a natural setting, where the transition from summer to autumn is depicted through vivid imagery. The protagonist, a determined squirrel, embodies a quest for sustenance amidst the changing environment. The mountain serves as a backdrop, symbolizing both beauty and decay, as the air is described in a way that evokes a sense of vulnerability and exposure. The squirrel's journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of the stars, which he perceives as edible treasures. This pursuit reflects a deeper yearning for fulfillment and connection to the universe. The stars, likened to "icily clustered nuts," represent unattainable desires that tantalize the squirrel, driving him to navigate the branches of his world with hope and determination. As the squirrel explores, he encounters a mountain pool, a moment of introspection and revelation. The pool symbolizes a threshold between the tangible and the ethereal, where the squirrel's aspirations collide with the harsh reality of existence. His plunge into the water signifies a surrender to the unknown, a moment of both despair and transcendence. The imagery of "fairy nuts" and the "soundless heart" of the pool suggests a blend of innocence and the inevitability of fate. The squirrel's experience becomes a metaphor for the human condition, exploring themes of desire, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels indifferent. Ultimately, the work encapsulates the tension between aspiration and reality, illustrating how the pursuit of dreams can lead to both enlightenment and despair. The squirrel's journey serves as a poignant reflection on the nature of existence, inviting readers to contemplate their own quests for fulfillment amidst the complexities of life.
By Maxwell Bodenheim · First published 1930 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Literary Fiction · 251 words
First lines
August sauntered down the mountain-side, Dropping mottled, turbid wraiths of decay. The air was like an old priest Disrobing without embarrassment Before the dark and candid gaze of night. But these things brought no pause To the saucily determined squirrel. His eyes were hungrily upturned To where the stars hung -- icily clustered nuts Dotting trees of solitude. He saw the stars just over the horizon, And they seemed to grow On trees that he could reach. So he scampered on, from branch to branch, Wondering why the fairy nut-trees Ran away from him. But, looking down, he spied A softly wild cheeked mountain pool, And there a handful of fairy nuts Bit into the indigo cupping them. With a squeal of weary happiness The squirrel plunged into the mountain pool, And as he drowned within its soundless heart The fairy nuts were jigging over him, Like the unheard stirring of a poem.
What this Textopian page supports
Rattlesnake Mountain Fable II is listed on Textopian as a fable by Maxwell Bodenheim, dated 1930 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: 1930 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Literary Fiction, Nature Writing, Fable
- Length: 251 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Mary Mary by James Stephens
- The Lonely Idol by Lord Dunsany
- Mongans Frenzy by James Stephens
- The Census Taker by Robert Frost
- The Fairy Pedant by W. B. Yeats
- The Rabbit by Edna St Vincent Millay
Genres
- Poetry — The work employs poetic language, imagery, and structure, focusing on themes of nature and existential reflection.
- Fantasy — The presence of anthropomorphized animals and whimsical elements like 'fairy nuts' suggests a fantastical setting.
- Literary Fiction — The depth of themes and stylistic choices indicate a focus on character and philosophical exploration typical of literary fiction.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the mountain and its surroundings highlight a strong connection to nature.
Tags
Fiction · Literary Fiction · American Literature · Modernism · Experimental Fiction · Symbolism · Mythology · Allegory · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Existentialism · Philosophical Themes