# The Fly and the Draught-Mule explained — Aesop's Fables

> Chapter companion for Aesop's Fables by Aesop.

## What happens

A Fly perched on a cart's shaft taunts the Mule pulling it, threatening to sting it if it doesn't go faster. The Mule calmly replies that it obeys its master, who holds the reins and whip, and dismisses the Fly's impertinence, asserting it knows when to work and when to rest.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Hierarchy and Power

The Mule's response highlights the proper chain of command, contrasting the Fly's presumptuous claim to authority with the master's legitimate control.

### Wisdom and Foolishness

The Mule shows wisdom by recognizing true authority and ignoring the Fly's empty threats, while the Fly's arrogance is foolish.

## Character check-ins

### The Fly

Sits on the cart shaft and tries to goad the Mule with threats.

### The Mule

Pulls the cart and rebuffs the Fly's interference, acknowledging only its master's authority.

## Key lines

> How slow you are! Do mend your pace, or I shall have to use my sting as a goad.

You're moving too slowly; speed up, or I'll sting you to make you go faster.

_The Fly's arrogant attempt to assert dominance over the Mule._

> Behind me, in the cart, sits my master. He holds the reins, and flicks me with his whip, and him I obey, but I don't want any of your impertinence. I know when I may dawdle and when I may not.

My master is in the cart behind me; he controls me with the reins and whip, and I follow his orders, not yours. I'm aware of when I can take it easy and when I must work.

_The Mule's wise response, acknowledging only the master's authority and dismissing the Fly's interference._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se/chapters/the-fly-and-the-draught-mule
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se
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