It warns that one never knows when or where one may come across unexpected success or failure. What must be cannot be avoided. Kolobok suggests a basic, if fatalistic, life lesson.

The little runaway bun continues to be one of Russia’s favorite folk heroes. He is beloved by every generation. A children’s magazine and innumerable shops and cafes are named in his honor. Can you imagine why is he so loved? Perhaps the reason is that Kolobok captures some special element of the Russian character and outlook on life. But who knows? The tale is an ancient memory that is ever renewed. Each telling is but a prelude. Merry Kolobok rolls on through the centuries.

Elena Pavlova is senior literary assistant for But why? a Russian educational publication.