"The Golden Cockerel" is a fairy tale by Alexander Pushkin, first published in 1834. The story revolves around a magical cockerel that can crow to warn a king of impending danger. The king, who is often portrayed as foolish, becomes overly reliant on the cockerel's powers, leading to unforeseen consequences. As the tale unfolds, the cockerel's magic brings both fortune and misfortune. The king's desire for control and power ultimately leads to his downfall, illustrating themes of greed and the unpredictability of fate. The story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of overdependence on external forces.