The Piece of String
A young boy finds a piece of string and becomes obsessed with finding its owner, leading to a series of events that reveal the darker aspects of human nature. The story explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. It also delves into the psychological effects of obsession and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Through the boy's relentless pursuit, Maupassant critiques societal norms and the tendency to shift blame onto others. The narrative builds towards a tragic conclusion that underscores the devastating impact of unchecked emotions and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1888 · Genre: Realism, Drama, Tragedy · 2,745 words
First lines
It was market-day, and from all the country round Goderville the peasants and their wives were coming toward the town. The men walked slowly, throwing the whole body forward at every step of their long, crooked legs. They were deformed from pushing the plough which makes the left-shoulder higher, and bends their figures side-ways; from reaping the grain, when they have to spread their legs so as to keep on their feet. Their starched blue blouses, glossy as though varnished, ornamented at collar and cuffs with a little embroidered design and blown out around their bony bodies, looked very much like balloons about to soar, whence issued two arms and two feet.
What this Textopian page supports
The Piece of String is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1888 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Realism, Drama, Tragedy, Satire
- Length: 2,745 words
- Structure: 1 section, 84 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Piece of String by Guy de Maupassant
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Piece of String?
- How does this short story by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Realism first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Realism — The story provides a detailed depiction of rural life and the social dynamics of a small French village, focusing on ordinary characters and their interactions.
- Drama — The narrative centers on the dramatic consequences of a misunderstanding and the protagonist's struggle to clear his name, highlighting themes of reputation and social perception.
- Tragedy — The protagonist's life is ultimately ruined by false accusations and societal judgment, leading to his downfall and death.
- Satire — The story critiques human nature and societal tendencies to jump to conclusions and ostracize individuals based on unfounded rumors.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Short Story · Realism · French Literature · 19th Century · Literary Classic · Social Commentary · Morality Tale · Human Nature · Emotional Depth · Character Study · Symbolism