The goose's feathers put the newly-fallen snow to shame. Proud of this dazzling gift of nature, she considered herself destined to be a swan. Accordingly, she separated from her companions and swam, solitarily and majestically, around the pond. She stretched her neck, trying with all her might to overcome its treacherous shortness. She then attempted to give it the graceful curve that designates the beautiful swan as the bird of Apollo. But it was in vain; her neck was too stiff. Despite all her efforts, she remained a ridiculous goose, failing to inspire any beholder with the slightest idea of her resemblance to a swan.
How many geese are there, without wings, who, due to similar pretensions, become laughing-stocks to their neighbors!