Waltey

Prevod

(Books should not be judged by their bulk or size.) An old grandfather thrush, Full of years and wisdom, Urged his grandson, A youngster of little experience, To hasten his flight 5 And make straight For a vineyard heavy with fruit, Where he might plunder at his ease. “Where is this vineyard?” The young fellow asked, 10 “And what fruit does it bear?” “A splendid feast awaits you today,” Said the old bird. “Come along; Learn how to live, you poor little thing.” And scarcely had he spoken 15 When he showed him the grapes. At the sight, the youngster gave a start: “Is this the fruit so highly praised By a bird as wise as you? How small! How puny! 20 Come now! Surely Such things can be worth nothing. I know a garden with bigger fruit, And better fruit, too.” “Let us see,” said the elder, 25 “Though I know a single grape of mine Will prove worth more.” They reached the garden, And the youngster cried out proudly: “What fruit! How plump it is! 30 Does it not look magnificent?” And what was it? A pumpkin. That a thrush should fall Into such an error is easy to believe; But it is far more surprising 35 That a man considered learned Should judge books by their size And by their bulk. A work is great if it is good; If bad, not a bit of it is needed. 40

Nalagam bralnik