Listener's Luck by C.J. Dennis

Name: Listener's Luck
Author: C.J. Dennis

The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a character reflecting on the lives of two women, Rose and Doreen, who engage in a conversation about love, luck, and the harsh realities of life. Rose expresses her belief that she belongs to a "unlucky sort," feeling resigned to a life devoid of romance and joy, while Doreen counters her pessimism, encouraging her to remain hopeful and recognize the beauty in life. The protagonist, who is married to Doreen, observes their exchange with a mix of pride and concern. He admires Doreen's wisdom and kindness but feels a pang of jealousy and defensiveness upon realizing she has spoken about him behind his back. He contemplates his plans for Rose, believing he can improve her situation and bring her happiness, contrasting his intentions with the perceived shortcomings of another man, Danny Dunn, who is older and less appealing but kinder than the alternative. As the story progresses, the protagonist reflects on the sadness of life, particularly the loss of a man named Mick, who died in war, and the impact of such loss on those left behind. He notices Rose standing alone, lost in thought, yet is surprised to hear her laughter when Wally Free, a local fool, engages her in light-hearted banter. This moment highlights the complexity of human emotions and the fleeting nature of happiness. The protagonist grapples with his feelings of inadequacy and the societal expectations of masculinity, ultimately resolving to take action to help Rose, believing that he can change her fate. The narrative captures themes of love, hope, and the struggle against life's adversities, emphasizing the importance of friendship and the potential for transformation.

By C.J. Dennis · First published 1944 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Drama · 1,123 words

First lines

"My sort," she sez, "don't meet no fairy prince. " I can't 'elp 'earin' part uv wot was said While I am sortin' taters in the shed. They've 'ad these secret confabs ever since Rose came. 'Er an' Doreen's been 'eart to 'eart, 'Oldin' pow-wows in which I got no part.

"My sort," sez Rose, "don't meet no fairy prince. " 'Er voice seems sort uv lonely like an' sad. "Ah well," she sez, "there's jobs still to be 'ad Down in the fact'ries. I ain't one to wince Frum all the knocks I've 'ad - an' will 'ave. Still, Sometimes I git fed-up against me will.

What this Textopian page supports

Listener's Luck is listed on Textopian as a short story by C.J. Dennis, dated 1944 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: C.J. Dennis
Date: 1944 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Drama, Romance, Social Commentary
Length: 1,123 words
Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Literary Fiction — The themes explore human emotions, relationships, and social commentary, typical of literary fiction.
Drama — The dialogue-driven narrative and character interactions reflect dramatic elements.
Romance — The exploration of love, longing, and relationships indicates romantic themes.