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Cover of Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes

Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes

Written by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont,Catherine Ann Turner Dorset

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FairiesPoorChildren's poetryWishes

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About this book

"Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes" by Catherine Dorset is a fairy tale written in the early 19th century. This narrative unfolds the tale of a humble couple, exploring themes of wishful thinking and the consequences that follow. The story serves as a whimsical yet cautionary reminder about the importance of prudent decision-making. In this tale, a poor couple named Homespun and Susan are granted three wishes by a fairy who they saved from a hare's fate. Initially excited by the prospect of their newfound fortune, the couple fantasizes about wealth and status. However, their first wish leads to unintended consequences when Susan impulsively wishes for a pudding, which ultimately lands on her nose due to a quarrel with her husband. Their second wish spirals further into trouble until they realize that their foolishness brought about their predicament. In the end, they learn a valuable lesson about moderation and the importance of thoughtful choices as they reclaim their sense of humility and gratitude.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 1 hours
  • beginner
  • cautionary
  • whimsical
  • humorous

Catherine Dorset's "Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes" is an early 19th-century fairy tale that humorously yet pointedly explores the perils of impulsivity and unconsidered desires. It follows Homespun and Susan, a humble couple who, after saving a fairy, are granted three wishes. Their initial excitement quickly devolves into chaos when Susan's impulsive wish for a pudding lands it on her nose, prompting Homespun's frustrated retort that uses up their second wish. Through their foolishness, they learn a valuable lesson about moderation, the importance of thoughtful choices, and ultimately, gratitude for their simple life.

“Oh, if only we had a delicious pudding right now!”

Key themes

Consequences of Impulsivity
This is the central theme, vividly illustrated by Susan's hasty wish for a pudding and Homespun's angry retort. The immediate and absurd negative outcomes of their unthinking actions serve as a direct lesson on the perils of acting without foresight.
Importance of Thoughtful Decision-Making
The entire narrative functions as an extended metaphor for the necessity of deliberation. The couple's failure to 'think before they speak' about their wishes leads directly to their troubles, highlighting that even great opportunities require careful consideration.
Moderation and Gratitude
The story ultimately advocates for contentment with one's lot and the dangers of excessive desire. The couple's return to their original humble state, having learned their lesson, implies that true happiness isn't found in limitless wishes but in appreciating what one already possesses.

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