Rudyard Kipling The Crab That Played With The Sea
If you are a fan of Rudyard Kipling's works, then The Crab That Played With The Sea is a must-read. This story has been enjoyed by generations, and it still manages to captivate readers of all ages. In this article, we will explore the story in detail and examine its themes, characters, and symbolism. So, let's dive in!
The Plot
The Crab That Played With The Sea is a story about how the animals came to be. It all starts when the great crab discovers that he can play with the waves of the sea. He then proceeds to create a magical dance that attracts the attention of the different animals that inhabit the earth. These animals, in turn, ask the crab to teach them the dance, but he refuses. He tells them that they must bring him gifts before he can teach them the dance.
Each animal tries to bring the crab a gift that he will accept, but they all fail. It is only the whale who manages to bring the crab a gift that he deems worthy. The crab then teaches the animals the dance, which becomes known as the Dance of the Waves. This dance brings joy to the animals and is still performed to this day.
The Themes
One of the central themes in The Crab That Played With The Sea is the idea of learning and knowledge. The animals all want to learn the dance, but they must earn the knowledge first. This theme is particularly relevant today, with the emphasis on education and the acquisition of knowledge.
Another important theme is the idea of generosity. The crab only teaches the animals the dance when they bring him gifts. This highlights the importance of giving and being generous, even if it's just a small token of appreciation.
The Characters
The great crab is the main character in the story. He is portrayed as a powerful and wise creature who can control the waves of the sea. The crab is also shown to be somewhat greedy, as he only teaches the dance to the animals who bring him gifts. Despite this, he is still a beloved character who has captured the imaginations of readers for generations.
The other animals in the story are also memorable, particularly the whale who manages to bring the crab a gift that he deems worthy. The various animals are all given distinct personalities that make them unique and memorable.
The Symbolism
The Dance of the Waves is a powerful symbol in the story. It represents the joy and wonder of life and the interconnectedness of all living things. The dance is also a reminder that we should appreciate the natural world and all the creatures that inhabit it.
The gifts that the animals bring to the crab also have symbolic significance. Each gift represents a different quality or trait that is valued in the world. For example, the deer's antlers represent speed and agility, while the elephant's tusks represent strength and power.
Conclusion
The Crab That Played With The Sea is a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Its themes of learning, generosity, and interconnectedness are just as relevant today as they were when the story was first written. So, if you haven't read this story yet, be sure to give it a try!
