The fable of the grasshopper and the ant primarily articulates the theme of preparation and the consequences of one’s choices. The ant represents hard work, foresight, and diligence, laboring to store food for the winter, while the grasshopper symbolizes carefree living and lack of planning. The moral teaches that those who do not prepare for the future may face hardship, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and foresight in life. This fable serves as a cautionary tale about the value of hard work and the risks associated with procrastination.