An Ultimatum to Myrtilla
The story revolves around a woman who receives an ultimatum from her lover to either marry him or lose his affections forever. She must decide whether to conform to societal expectations and settle for a loveless marriage, or risk everything by pursuing a life of independence and freedom. The narrative explores themes of love, power dynamics, and the constraints placed on women during that era. The protagonist's inner turmoil reflects the societal pressures she faces, as she grapples with the consequences of her choice. Throughout the story, the author critiques the patriarchal norms that govern relationships between men and women, highlighting the limited options available to women at the time.
By Franklin P. Adams · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Satire · 236 words
First lines
(Inspired by the shameless styles in hair.)
Ah, Myrtilla mine, you said -- And your tone was earnest, very -- You would never deck your head With this vernal millinery.
Myrt, to mince no words, you lied; Oh, that I should live to know it! You that are my nearly-bride; I that am your nearly-poet!
For I saw the awful lid You had on at 10 this morning; Myrt, it was a merrywid, Spite of my decisive warning.
What this Textopian page supports
An Ultimatum to Myrtilla is listed on Textopian as a short story by Franklin P. Adams, dated 1926 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Franklin P. Adams
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Satire, Romance
- Length: 236 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Ultimatum to Myrtilla by Franklin P. Adams
- 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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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Ultimatum to Myrtilla?
- How does this short story by Franklin P. Adams fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Myrtillas Third Degree by Franklin P. Adams
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- Glycera Rediviva by Franklin P. Adams
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The tone is light-hearted and playful, using wit and irony to address the subject matter.
- Satire — The poem critiques societal norms and fashion trends, employing exaggeration and humor.
- Romance — The poem addresses a romantic relationship, focusing on the dynamics between the speaker and Myrtilla.
Tags
Satire · Social Commentary · Fiction · Novel · American Literature · 20th Century Literature · Humor · Wit · Sarcasm · Irony · Critique of Society · Class Satire