
The Peacock and the Crane
The Peacock and the Crane
Aesop’s Fable – Easy English Version
NARRATOR:
One warm morning, a proud peacock was walking near a quiet lake.
He saw his reflection in the water and admired his colorful feathers.
Bright blues, greens, and gold shimmered in the sunlight.
Just then, a quiet gray crane landed nearby.
PEACOCK:
“Look at me! Aren’t I the most beautiful bird you’ve ever seen?
My tail shines like jewels. You are so plain and gray!”
NARRATOR:
The crane looked at the peacock and smiled gently.
He was not angry or jealous.
CRANE:
“Yes, your feathers are very pretty.
You shine like a rainbow. But tell me—can you fly high into the sky?”
NARRATOR:
The peacock flapped his wings proudly and took off from the ground…
but only for a few seconds. He could not go far.
Peacocks can fly, but not high or long.
NARRATOR:
Then the crane opened his wide wings.
With strong, steady beats, he soared into the sky.
He flew above the trees, over the lake, and up past the clouds.
The peacock watched from below, silent now.
NARRATOR (ending):
Beauty can be admired, but it does not last forever.
What truly matters is what you can do—your abilities, your character, and your heart.
The crane had no bright colors, but he could fly freely where the peacock could only dream.
THE END.
Vocabulary
-
Peacock – a bird with big, colorful tail feathers
-
Crane – a tall gray bird with long wings and legs
-
Reflection – the image of something in a mirror or water
-
Proud – feeling very good about yourself
-
Soar – to fly high in the sky
Useful Expressions
-
“Aren’t I the most beautiful bird?” – showing pride or showing off
-
“Can you fly high into the sky?” – asking about a special ability
-
“He soared into the sky.” – flying up smoothly and powerfully
Comprehension Questions
1. What did the peacock like to look at in the water?
2. What color was the crane?
3. What did the peacock say to the crane?
4. What did the crane do to show his special ability?
5. What does this story teach us about what really matters?