A Marvellous Invention
The poem describes a fantastical machine that can perform various tasks, from menial chores to grand creative endeavors. The speaker marvels at the invention's capabilities, listing its functions in a whimsical and dreamlike tone.
By Eugene Field · First published 1899 · Genre: Satire, Fiction, Humor · 1,235 words
First lines
It is narrated, that, once upon a time, there lived a youth who required so much money for the gratification of his dissolute desires, that he was compelled to sell his library in order to secure funds. Thereupon, he despatched a letter to his venerable father, saying, "Rejoice with me, O father! for already am I beginning to live upon the profits of my books."
What this Textopian page supports
A Marvellous Invention is listed on Textopian as a short story by Eugene Field, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Fiction, Humor, Social Commentary, Fantasy
- Length: 1,235 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Marvellous Invention by Eugene Field
- 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 A Marvellous Invention?
- How does this short story by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Tono Bungay by H. G. Wells
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- Boon by H. G. Wells
Genres
- Satire — The book critiques societal norms and consumerism through the absurdity of a bed that doubles as a library.
- Fiction — The narrative presents a fictional story centered around an inventive character and his creations.
- Humor — The writing employs humor to highlight the ridiculousness of the invention and the characters' motivations.
- Social Commentary — The text comments on the cultural and literary aspirations of Chicago society.
Tags
Whimsical · Fantasy · Imagination · Innovation · Adventure · Exploration · Discovery · Curiosity · Playful · Humorous · Satire · Social commentary