Other Little Mothers
The narrative explores the lives of affluent young girls, referred to as "Little Mothers," who engage in play with elaborate dolls instead of real children. These girls are depicted as being adorned in luxurious clothing, emphasizing their privileged status. The poem contrasts the carefree existence of these wealthy children with the responsibilities of actual motherhood, suggesting that the dolls they care for are far less demanding than real babies. The playful tone highlights the absurdity of their situation, as they are shielded from the realities of parenting. The "Little Mothers" are portrayed as products of their environment, where societal expectations dictate their roles and activities. The work critiques the superficiality of high society, where the innocence of childhood is replaced by a performance of motherhood that lacks genuine emotional depth. Ultimately, the piece reflects on the nature of upbringing in affluent circles, questioning the value of such experiences when they are devoid of true responsibility and connection. The poem serves as a commentary on the artificiality of social roles and the impact of wealth on childhood experiences.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1920 · Genre: Children's Literature, Family, Drama · 103 words
First lines
The Little Mothers of the rich Are really works of art, They are dressed up to such a pitch In frocks so fine and smart.
They do not have to take the charge Of baby boys or girls; No, they have dolls exceeding large With silky, flaxen curls.
Ah, Mothers in Society, Accept this reasoning sound; Dolls far less troublesome would be Than children bothering round.
What this Textopian page supports
Other Little Mothers is listed on Textopian as a short story by Carolyn Wells, dated 1920 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Carolyn Wells
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Family, Drama, Coming-of-Age
- Length: 103 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Other Little Mothers by Carolyn Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Other Little Mothers?
- How does this short story by Carolyn Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Two Little Women by Carolyn Wells
- Patty Fairfield by Carolyn Wells
- To Remember Charlie By by Roger Dee Aycock
- Caleb West by Francis Hopkinson Smith
- Adventures Of John Dietrich by Dinah Mulock
- The Lamplighter by Charles Dickens
Genres
- Children's Literature — The story revolves around the experiences and perspectives of children, with children as primary characters.
- Family — The story centers around family relationships, dynamics, and experiences.
- Drama — The plot involves emotional conflicts and dramatic events that the characters must navigate and resolve.
- Coming-of-Age — The characters, primarily children, undergo personal growth and development throughout the story, signifying a coming-of-age journey.
Tags
motherhood · family · relationships · children · women's fiction · friendship · love · sacrifice · coming of age · life lessons · emotional growth · community