The Emperor's Rout

"The Emperor's Rout" by Unknown is a charming narrative poem that tells the tale of Emperor Moth's grand ball. Frustrated at being snubbed by the butterfly ball, the Emperor decides to throw an even bigger party, inviting a host of moths and other insects. The poem uses lively and colorful descriptions to show off the insects' personalities as they dance, dine, and revel in the festivities, until a sudden fire scare throws the celebration into disarray. Through the chaos and humor, the Emperor and Empress reflect on how quickly things can change and the silliness of trying to outdo others, especially when compared to the butterflies' carefree existence, ultimately providing thoughtful insights into human behavior through an insect's lens.