The Power of Fables

 

The renowned Greek orator 'Demades' once addressed an assembly in Athens on a matter of great importance yet struggled to hold his audience’s attention. The crowd whispered among themselves, distracted by children playing nearby, and showed no interest in his speech.

Pausing briefly, 'Demades' began anew:
"One day, the goddess Ceres journeyed with a Swallow and an Eel."
The crowd fell silent, every ear now keen to hear his words.

"When they reached a river," he continued, "the Eel swam across, and the Swallow flew over."
Having captured their attention, Demades returned to his original speech.

But the people erupted: "What of Ceres? Tell us—what did the goddess do?"

Demades replied, "She was furious—just as she is now—that people open their ears to fables but close them to truth and wisdom."