"The Monkey's Paw" is a short story written by W.W. Jacobs. It was first published in 1902. The story revolves around a magical monkey's paw that grants its owner three wishes. However, these wishes come with a dangerous consequence. It explores themes of greed, fate, and the unpredictable consequences of our choices.
The story begins with the White family, who receives the monkey's paw from a family friend who had acquired it during his travels in India. The friend warns them about the paw's power and the potential dangers it holds. Despite the warning, Mr. White is enticed by the possibilities and decides to make a wish.
Mr. White wishes for two hundred pounds to pay off their house. A few days later, they receive news that their son has been killed in a workplace accident and they are being awarded two hundred pounds as compensation. Though devastated by their son's death, they are grateful for the money.
Mrs. White, consumed by grief, demands that Mr. White use their second wish to bring their son back to life. Mr. White reluctantly uses the paw to make the wish. Shortly after, they hear a knock at the door, but when Mrs. White goes to open it, Mr. White panics and uses the third and final wish to undo his second wish.
The knocking ceases, and they are left in silence. Mrs. White pleads with Mr. White to use the third wish to bring their son back, but he refuses, realizing the consequences of tampering with fate.
The story ends with the implication that their son's spirit is now at peace, and Mr. and Mrs. White are left to live with the consequences of their wishes. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the unpredictable nature of fate.
"The Monkey's Paw" is a popular and widely studied text in literature, particularly in the context of short stories and supernatural fiction. It has been adapted numerous times for stage, radio, and television, further cementing its place in popular culture.
the monkeys paw common lit
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