An Ark in the Mud (December, 1917.)
The narrative unfolds in a military setting during December 1917, where the protagonist arrives at a makeshift hut resembling a Noah's Ark, serving as a social hub for British soldiers. The environment is depicted as muddy and dreary, yet it transforms into a lively space filled with camaraderie as soldiers gather for tea. The protagonist, a camp-follower, is introduced to the dynamics of serving tea, observing the diverse backgrounds of the soldiers, each with their own stories and experiences from the front lines. The hut is meticulously organized, with a central stove and neatly arranged tables, creating a welcoming atmosphere despite the surrounding chaos of war. The protagonist learns the ropes from a young hut-leader, who efficiently manages the flow of soldiers, showcasing leadership and a sense of duty. As the evening progresses, the protagonist becomes immersed in the rhythm of serving tea, feeling a sense of belonging amidst the soldiers' resilience and vitality. The narrative captures the juxtaposition of war's harsh realities with the warmth of human connection, highlighting the importance of small comforts like tea in fostering morale. The protagonist's reflections reveal a deep appreciation for the shared experiences and the fleeting moments of joy found in the midst of conflict.
By E.W. Hornung · First published 1917 · Genre: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Literary Fiction · 3 chapters · 6,395 words
First lines
'There's our hut! ' said the young hut-leader, pointing through iron palings at a couple of toy Noah's Arks built large. 'No -- that's the _nth_ Division's cinema. The Y. M. C. A. is the one beyond.'
What this Textopian page supports
An Ark in the Mud (December, 1917.) is listed on Textopian as a short story by E.W. Hornung, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: E.W. Hornung
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary
- Length: 6,395 words
- Structure: 3 chapters, 66 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Ark in the Mud (December, 1917.) by E.W. Hornung
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set during World War I, focusing on the experiences of soldiers and camp followers, reflecting historical events and societal conditions of the time.
- War Literature — The book explores themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the impact of war on individuals, making it a significant work within the genre of war literature.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is reflective and character-driven, emphasizing the emotional and psychological experiences of the characters.
- Drama — The interactions and dialogues among characters create dramatic tension and highlight personal struggles amidst the backdrop of war.
Tags
historical fiction · World War I · adventure · survival · suspense · drama · military · tragedy · friendship · courage · loss · exploration