The Rope-Dancer by Tomás de Iriarte
A brash, inexperienced performer disputes the necessity of traditional tools and techniques taught by a seasoned mentor. He argues that the counterbalance instrument, deemed essential in the art, is an unnecessary hindrance, claiming his natural strength and agility render it superfluous. In an impetuous demonstration designed to prove his point, he abandons this support and attempts a maneuver without it. His overconfidence leads swiftly to a fall, underscoring the inherent risks of dismissing established methods. The mentor’s response is an admonition that mastery in the discipline requires not only innate vigor but also the consistent application of artful technique and the willingness to learn from setbacks. This narrative episode serves as an allegory for the broader principle that discipline, method, and respect for experienced guidance are indispensable in the pursuit of perfection, and that each misstep is an integral part of the learning process.
By Tomás de Iriarte · First published 1782 · Genre: Didactic Poetry, Fable, Satire · 252 words
First lines
As an unpractised urchin lessons took In dancing, of a veteran of the ring, On slack or tight rope, -- it is all one thing, -- The youngster said, -- "Good master, prithee, look; How this great staff bothers and wearies me, Which you call balance-pole or counterpoise!
In rope-dancing, what use one can devise For such a clumsy load, I cannot see.
Why should you wish my motions so to fetter?
I lack not strength, nor yet activity.
What this Textopian page supports
The Rope-Dancer is listed on Textopian as a fable by Tomás de Iriarte, dated 1782 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Fable
- Author: Tomás de Iriarte
- Date: 1782 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Didactic Poetry, Fable, Satire, Allegory, Humorous Verse
- Length: 252 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Didactic Poetry — The work is composed in verse and employs instruction and moral lessons through its poetic narrative.
- Fable — It features a master-student dialogue that imparts a moral lesson, characteristic of fable storytelling.
- Satire — The playful critique of flawed methods and youthful defiance underscores a satirical tone.
- Allegory — The rope-dancing act serves as a metaphor for broader themes of balance and discipline in life.
Tags
allegorical · didactic · fable · poetic · moral · neoclassical · Spanish literature · symbolic · satirical · stylized · balance · risk