In an old fable, a fox is unable to obtain some grapes that he truly wishes to have. However, after failing to obtain them, he says that he never really wanted the grapes in the first place, and they're likely sour. This behaviour is most consistent with the defence mechanism of

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The fox is using rationalization to defend against the disappointment of not being able to obtain the grapes. By convincing himself that he never really wanted them and that they were likely sour, he is able to cope with his failure and avoid feelings of inadequacy or disappointment.

In an Old Fable, a Fox Is Unable to Obtain