Finally had the time to read this short story I have been meaning to read for a long time now. I haven't had time to read anything for a while now, but occasionally when I have the time I read the family upstairs by Lisa Jewel. A really great book so far. I finally read this one a few days ago and then decided to review it today. H. H. Munro has definitely become one of my favorite writers in the short story genre. I have read a few of his works and I have been delighted with how the story goes and ends.
- Author - H.H. Munro (SAKI)
- Title - Sredni Vashtar
- Originally Published - 1911
- Genre - Fiction, Short Stories
PLOT
The story is about a sickly little lad who stays with his overbearing and mean legal guardian. He despises her a lot and wishes he wasn't under her control. He eventually finds solace in a small shed in the house where he keeps a hen and another more vicious creature; a ferret. One which he worships as a sort of god. Eventually, his guardian finds out about his secret hideout and sells off the chicken. He is unperturbed as he continues to go to the shed praying to his ferret to grant him one wish. His guardian eventually goes into the shed to see what he hides, but the unimaginable happens.
SETTING
There is no mention of the name of a place, except the farm and shed where every scene happened.
CHARACTER(S)
- Conradin - The young lad; and his guardian,
- Mrs. De Ropp
PURPOSE
People often time get what's coming to them. A sorta- You-reap-what-you-sow- scenario.
I have always believed H.H. Munro is a gem of a writer. He ranks as one of the best short story writers out there and this work goes to prove that point. I legitimately don't know where to start analyzing this one. First off, the choice of diction is great. His simple and understandable words make for an enjoyable read. He also employed the use of various figures of speech to further emphasize his point. The theme of religion and how we mindlessly follow it, the innocence of children, etc. were predominant. It also makes a mockery of the idea of religion and faith, as Conradin (the protagonist) made a god for himself in a dangerous creature, and prays to it every day for a wish. It feels like the author added a bit of themselves into this. The ending was satisfying it. It's not often what you say of short stories but the author gave one that just felt right. It is a great read. I will definitely recommend it for leisure. I would also rate it a 3.7 out of 5.