I have started to read a collection of Grimm's fairy tales for it was a Christmas present from my sister. This version is entitled 'The Brothers' Grimm 99 Fairy Tales' I was reading number 19 entitled 'The Fisherman and His Wife'. To me this is a story of out and out GREED. The fisherman goes out on his daily fishing job and does not come with any fish for the one he catches says that he is a prince and will grant wishes for whomever. The fisherman lets the fish go, but his wife keeps sending him back to ask the fish for better and better things till one day after on last wish something occurs for one should not wish what the wife wished. This is not the same fairy tale that was once in one of my school reading book as a Just for fun story.
This version was much more adult and will make one think what is more important to be rich and miserable or poor and happy. My schoolbook version was more fun to read, but this version leads to one wondering about if money and largess is really all important to be happy. Pray.
About the Creator
Mark Graham
I am a person who really likes to read and write and to share what I learned with all my education. My page will mainly be book reviews and critiques of old and new books that I have read and will read. There will also be other bits, too.
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More stories from Mark Graham and writers in Critique and other communities.
Welcome to Kindergarten
Welcome to Kindergarten! We are going to have so much fun learning all we need to know. We well learn our letters and numbers, our colors and shapes along with learning to work together and use our manners in various situations. We will learn about plants and animals as well as ourselves. We will sing, draw and make things as well as learn what our bodies can do from walking to hopping and other things to when learning what our bodies need to grow. Kindergarten a year that will give you a good start for the rest of your lives.
By Mark Grahamabout a year ago in Critique
Standing While Falling
Quotation from Friedrich Nietzsche "He who wrestles long with monsters should beware lest he himself become a monster. And if you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you. Man is not destroyed by suffering, but by the meaning he makes of it."
By LUCCIAN LAYTH9 days ago in Critique
Nurses Strike in New York City Hospitals
**Nurses Strike in New York City Hospitals** A large-scale strike by nurses has taken place in New York City, drawing national attention to the challenges facing the healthcare system. Thousands of registered nurses working in major hospitals across the city decided to walk off the job after negotiations with hospital management failed to reach an agreement. The strike reflects deep concerns about working conditions, patient safety, and fair treatment for healthcare professionals who are considered the backbone of hospital care.
By America today 4 days ago in Critique
Miss Persephone's Manual to a Seemingly Ordinary Life
Miss Persephone was found at the dining table, her blue eyes swollen, her tears arriving and retreating like the tides of the ocean. Earlier that day, her family had visited her in the retirement home where she had lived for eight years. It was her eightieth birthday.
By Imola Tótha day ago in Fiction
Comments (9)
I know my job keeps me busy and limits my time here, but I just stumbled on something I really like. I will read all of your Grimm's Fairy Tales pieces, Mark. Poor and happy, for me, every time. That's my take!
What a great reflection on The Fisherman and His Wife! I agree with you—it’s fascinating how the tone of the story can shift depending on the version. The original Grimm's tale is much darker and offers a much deeper moral lesson about greed and the consequences of constantly desiring more. The stark contrast between the joyful, more light-hearted version you encountered in school and this more adult rendition really highlights how fairy tales can evolve over time to carry heavier, more thought-provoking messages. It makes you question the true meaning of happiness, and whether the pursuit of wealth can sometimes lead us away from what really matters—contentment and gratitude. Thanks for sharing your thoughts; it's a story that definitely leaves you with much to ponder!
This is a beautiful story! ✨ It also conveys an noble message.
Thank you for sharing stories from your past reads and present reads.😊💗
HMMM. Much to think about, happy is my vote, however it comes abooot!
The contrast between this deeper moral message and the simpler, more entertaining version from your school days shows the timeless appeal and layered meanings of these stories.
I remember reading the Brothers Grimm with my kids. Always very thought provoking stories.
Sounds a good read
Why it's important to read a book before giving it to a child