Have you ever opened a book and felt every single word hits you like a hammer? I have. Written in 2019, Charlie Mackesy’s “The Boy, the mole, the fox and the horse” has created a ripple in my heart with the words. His words proving that even the simplest language can convey the strongest message.
The book is made up of aphorisms; little truths of life. They do not shout; they whisper and yet they leave an ache that lingers.
Well, the story starts from nowhere it’s about a boy lost in the woods as there is no background where he came from? Who is this boy? Along his path he meets a mole and they speak of kindness, courage and the beauty of existence. Later, the boy encounters a fox trapped in a snare. The wary fox threatened to kill the mole, yet unexpectedly the mole saved him. Later the fox repaid by saving the mole and be a part of group. Finally, they meet horse whose presence brings a calm wisdom to the group and continued their journey to find a way to boy’s home.
Four unlikely companions walking through an unnamed wilderness, exchanging words of wisdom. Each with the different characters reflects the inner-selves, our feeling and thought. Mole with his witty and humorous remarks shows that happiness can be found in the smallest thing and such simple joys can be a source of motivation to keep on moving forward.
The mole frequent mention of a ‘Cake’ on various occasions reflects his tendency to be happy in the smallest thing while some might perceive this as gluttony, it is in truth, a reminder to embrace the small sources of joy that sustain us. The fox remained silence most of the journey, another truth of human life when we have been accused, misunderstood, humiliated and wounded countless times, we often choose silence. We stop trying to prove ourselves to others and turn towards the path of solitude. And the horse, the most powerful among them profound and seasoned with experience. His presence offered a stability and wisdom that anchors the group.
This book succeeds in teaching humane value in the simplest way possible. At one point, as the boy sees his reflection in the river, the mole observes “Isn’t it odd. We can only see our outsides, but nearly everything happens the insides”. Here is existentialism in its purest form!
Something to Ponder! The reality that our inner world shapes our being. Likewise, when mole said “One of our greatest freedoms is how we react to things”. It was quintessence of pragmatistic wisdom. World could be gentler only if we learn to respond with thought, rather than impulses.
Other aspects this book has covered is the inner-we and our vulnerabilities. When the boy asked “What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done”? The horse replied “Asking for help”. It is a truth we often forget there is valour in admitting weakness. Imagine countless life lost because someone could not speak their need. Sometimes, we must display our vulnerability in order to survive. Our life is bound by limitations, yet it is breakable if we have faith. It is ok to show our weakness, to shade tears, and to feel fear. This is where the value of togetherness lies. With friends we can bear anything alone it can feel impossible. Life is hard, life goes out of control. There are whirlpools to test us. In those moments, the key to survival is focusing on what we love most, to love ourselves and to be loved.
The beauty of the book lies in its simplicity, complemented by beautiful illustrations. The book compelled readers to ponder on its words and demands careful reflection. It explores universal themes like friendship, courage, love and self-acceptance.
However, some readers find this shallow because of its writing style, which contains limited conversation. In reality, it is not shallow but instead demands subjective interpretation which can be difficult. This can be considered a con of the book.
The boy, the mole, the fox and the horse is more than a story. It is a mirror. Through its characters, we encounter many versions of ourselves. Through their conversations, we are offered beautiful lens through which we can see our world in our unique way. Despite the calamities and limitations of life we must face every circumstance with courage by accepting our weakness, seeking for help and embracing resilience. This book is for everyone.
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