FAMOUS POETS
The Mountain and the Squirrel
b y R a l p h W a l d o E m e r s o n
The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut.