The Astronomer


Summary

The story describes an astronomer who is so absorbed in observing the stars that he falls into a well. As he cries out for help, a neighbor approaches and questions why the astronomer, while focused on the heavens above, fails to notice what is directly in front of him on earth. This tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of balancing one's attention between lofty aspirations and practical realities, emphasizing that while exploring possibilities beyond our immediate surroundings is valuable, it is equally crucial to remain aware of and attentive to our current environment and circumstances.

Read Online

An Astronomer used to go out at night to observe the stars. One evening, as he wandered through the suburbs with his whole attention fixed on the sky, he fell accidentally into a deep well. While he lamented and bewailed his sores and bruises, and cried loudly for help, a neighbor ran to the well, and learning what had happened said: “Hark ye, old fellow, why, in striving to pry into what is in heaven, do you not manage to see what is on earth?”