Just So Stories · Theme
Consequences of Idleness
How Just So Stories develops Consequences of Idleness.
The Camel's refusal to work results in the Djinn giving him a hump as a punishment, forcing him to labor for three days without food, illustrating the theme that laziness has tangible repercussions.
Where it surfaces
- How the Whale Got His Throat
The whale's unchecked eating leads to his discomfort and eventual limitation, showing the consequences of acting without thought.
- How the Camel Got His Hump
The Camel's refusal to work leads to a physical hump and eternal lag in catching up on missed work, illustrating the negative outcomes of laziness.
- How the Rhinoceros Got His Skin
The Rhinoceros's lack of manners and disregard for others leads to his permanent physical change and bad temper.
- The Elephant's Child
The Crocodile's idleness in waiting for prey is contrasted with the Elephant's Child's active quest for knowledge.
- The Singsong of Old Man Kangaroo
Kangaroo's dissatisfaction with his original form and his idle dancing prompt a drastic, unwanted transformation.
- The Crab That Played with the Sea
The Man's laziness leads to the Moon being tasked to pull the sea twice daily, creating the tides and the 'Malazy' people.