The Fool Who Sold Wisdom by Jean de La Fontaine (1621 – 1695) – Audiobook

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom by Jean de La Fontaine (1621 – 1695) – Audiobook in English

Jean de La Fontaine, one of the most celebrated writers of 17th-century France, is best known for his fables that combine wit, moral lessons, and storytelling. The Fool Who Sold Wisdom is a delightful example of his ability to weave a moral tale with timeless relevance.

This English translation, skillfully rendered by Elizur Wright, retains the charm and essence of the original French text. Wright, a notable American abolitionist and mathematician, was known for his linguistic talent and dedication to preserving La Fontaine’s works for English-speaking audiences.

LibriVox’s recording of this poem, completed as a community project, features multiple narrators, providing diverse interpretations of La Fontaine’s words and making this a unique listening experience.

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Why You Should Listen to This Audiobook

1. A Timeless Moral Fable

La Fontaine’s fables have entertained and educated readers for centuries. This poem offers a simple yet profound moral that resonates across ages.

2. Unique Narration Styles

As a multi-version poetry project, this collection features readings by several LibriVox volunteers, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the piece.

3. A Connection to Literary History

Explore a masterpiece from one of France’s greatest poets, brought into English by a translator who contributed significantly to literature and social reform.

4. A Quick and Engaging Listen

Perfect for a short commute or a quiet moment, The Fool Who Sold Wisdom is an ideal way to enjoy a literary classic without a significant time commitment.

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About the Author

Jean de La Fontaine (1621–1695) was a prolific French poet and fabulist. His fables, inspired by Aesop and other ancient sources, became classics in their own right, blending satire, morality, and storytelling. La Fontaine’s influence extends far beyond his lifetime, cementing his status as one of France’s literary treasures.

Elizur Wright (1804–1885) was an American author, abolitionist, and mathematician. His translation of La Fontaine’s works brought the French poet’s timeless fables to the English-speaking world. Wright’s literary contributions are matched only by his social and economic reforms.

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Final Thoughts

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom is a charming poem with a rich history and timeless message. Through this audiobook, listeners can appreciate the beauty of La Fontaine’s storytelling and the skill of Elizur Wright’s translation, all brought to life by the diverse voices of LibriVox volunteers.

Experience this classic fable today and discover the wisdom within its lines.

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by BK

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by CMD

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by DL

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by IKL

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by LCW

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by LS

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by MJH

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by RR

The Fool Who Sold Wisdom – read by SWS