The Newt Who Knew

🐺 Modern Fables #4

There once lived a newt who knew it all. Or so he thought.

The newt was preparing for a dangerous journey through the winter forest. It was a rite of passage for all young newts.

His elders tried to prepare him for the treachery of the forest, and the trickery of winter. But the newt wouldn’t listen. He had spent his youth immersed in books of all kinds. This filled him with confidence that he could face any challenge.

“Remember to—” the elders would begin.

“I know,” the newt would interrupt. “I’ve read more than all of you combined. I need no guidance.”

Eventually, the elders went silent.

The newt turned and left his elders behind. He began his long journey alone. Soon, the winter joined him.

When the foxes appeared, the newt knew to burrow and hide, but all he could do was freeze in place. He got bit on his leg, and escaped within an inch of his life.

When nightfall brought bitter cold winds, the newt knew he had to warm up, but his trembling hands couldn’t start a fire.

When his food ran low, the newt knew he needed to ration his supplies, but his belly yelled loudly. He couldn’t resist, and ate everything he had.

Soon, the newt had run out of food and warmth. Predators lurked nearby.

The newt knew his end was nigh. Or so he thought.

An elder newt appeared, embraced the young newt, fed him, and protected him.

The newt looked up at the elder. “I’m sorry. I thought I knew—”

“I know,” said the elder newt.

In the morning, the newt took the rations the elder gave him, and continued his journey.

“Will you be alright?” asked the elder.

“I will,” said the newt. “In the summer, I had knowledge. But the winter made me wise.”

He stepped forward a new newt.

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If you liked this fable, you’ll love my book of modern fables, Wandering Spirits!

This fable was written, illustrated and narrated by me, Salman Ansari. I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, I’d greatly appreciate if you shared it with a friend, parent, or child who might enjoy it too.