Hans Christian Andersen was a Danish poet and author who lived from 1805 to 1875.  One of the stories he wrote is the classic The Ugly Duckling (Den Grimme Aelling).  This is the tale of a seemingly homely little bird who is much abused by others until he grows up to find he’s not a duck at all.  He is, indeed, a beautiful swan.  The most beautiful of all bird species.

This metaphorical tale is actually about the beauty of transformation possible for us all.  As such, it is a favorite around the world.   Each of us dreams of becoming a better version of them.  At least, until some so called reality kills that dream.  Some of us holdfast to that dream and keep on striving to our dying breath.

First published on November 23, 1843, the tale has become adapted as an opera, musical, animated feature.  There is no doubt in my mind that as long as there are dreamers in this world, this tale will linger in the minds and dreams of those brave enough to believe in that immortal something better.   Unlike other tales made famous by Andersen, this story is said to be completely his own creation.

There are a lot of legends regarding the sources of the theme.  Some believe that Andersen found out just before writing this story that despite growing up as a commoner that he was the illegitimate son of the Danish king.  Others hold that at least parts of the tale were based on Andersen’s friend, Jenny Lind.

Whatever the case, The Ugly Duckling stands out in the fairy tale genre in that there was no sort of hero’s journey – no tests or trials – just an unfolding into himself.  This lends itself some credence to the idea that perhaps for whatever reasons, Andersen felt himself a breed apart.  This is a tale of dignity and worth, even superiority not accomplishment.

The Ugly Duckling may be read here:

http://www.bartleby.com/17/3/1.html

Or, listened to in its audiobook format here: