About the Author
Ogden Nash was an American poet born on 19 August 1902. He was famous for writing short, funny poems that make people laugh. His poems are full of silly words and surprises. He wrote more than 500 poems for children and grown-ups. The Tale of Custard the Dragon is one of his most loved poems because it is fun and teaches a big lesson. Ogden Nash passed away in 1971, but his funny lines are still read in schools.
What’s the Story About?
This is a funny poem about a little girl named Belinda and her four pets. Everyone thinks they are very brave, but the dragon named Custard is called a coward because he is always scared. Then one day, a real danger comes, and guess who saves everyone? Custard!
Let me tell you the poem step by step:
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Belinda’s House: Belinda lives in a small white house with her four pets:
- Ink – a black kitten
- Blink – a grey mouse
- Mustard – a yellow dog
- Custard – a dragon
- Everyone Laughs at Custard: The others call Custard a coward. They make fun of him. Custard just cries softly and asks for a nice, safe cage again.
- The Pirate Comes!: One day, a scary pirate climbs in through the window! He has pistols in both hands and a sharp sword. He looks very dangerous. Everyone is shocked!
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Who Runs Away?:
- Ink runs up the stairs.
- Blink hides in his mouse hole.
- Mustard runs to the basement.
- Belinda runs and hides behind a chair.
- Custard Saves the Day: Custard roars loudly and attacks the pirate. He bites him and swallows him whole! The pirate is gone in one gulp!
- Everyone is Safe: Belinda hugs Custard. Ink, Blink, and Mustard come out of hiding. They all say thank you to Custard.
- Back to Old Ways: After the danger is gone, everyone starts bragging again. Ink, Blink, and Mustard say they are the real heroes. They call Custard a coward once more. Custard just smiles and asks for his safe cage. He knows the truth!
The poem is funny because the one everyone called weak turns out to be the bravest. It teaches that looks and words don’t show true courage.
Who’s Who in the Story
- Belinda – A little girl who lives with her pets. She gets scared easily and hugs Custard for comfort.
- Ink – A small black kitten who boasts a lot but runs away during danger.
- Blink – A tiny grey mouse who also boasts and hides in a hole when afraid.
- Mustard – A brave-talking yellow dog who runs to the basement when the pirate comes.
- Custard – A pet dragon who everyone calls a coward, but he proves real bravery by fighting and defeating the pirate.
- Pirate – A bad man with guns and a sword who climbs in through the window but gets eaten by Custard.
Main Themes
- True Courage – Real bravery appears in danger, not in talk. (Custard fights when others run.)
- Don’t Judge – Never mock someone for being quiet or scared. (Everyone laughs at Custard but he saves them.)
- Friendship – Pets live together and share life. (They are a funny but loving family.)
- Funny Twist – The coward becomes the true hero.
Moral of the Poem
Don’t judge anyone by their looks or by what they say.
Real courage is shown through actions during tough times.
Be kind and respectful to others — even the quiet ones may surprise you.
Important Vocabulary
- Coward – Someone who is easily scared (used for Custard).
- Brag – To talk proudly or boast (Ink, Blink, Mustard do this).
- Realio Trulio – Funny phrase meaning “really truly.”
- Waggy – Moving tail quickly, like a happy dog.
- Dagger – A short sharp knife (pirate’s weapon).
- Barrel – Round belly (Custard’s fat stomach).
- Chimney – Pipe for smoke (Custard’s nose looks like one).
- Giggled – Laughed in a silly or light way (Belinda does this).
Famous Phrases from the Poem
- “Mouth like a fireplace” – Custard’s big, hot mouth.
- “Spikes on top of him” – Sharp points on Custard’s back.
- “Scales underneath” – Hard, shiny skin on his body.
- “Clashed his tail” – Hit his tail hard while fighting.
- “Nice safe cage” – Custard’s wish for a peaceful, safe place.
Read the poem aloud – it rhymes and sounds like a song!