On Error by Hilaire Belloc (1906)
The story revolves around a young boy who makes an error that has far-reaching consequences. He accidentally kills his mother's prize hen and must find a way to make amends. The narrative explores the complexities of guilt, responsibility, and redemption in a child's life.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1906 · Genre: Philosophical Essay, Satire, Non-fiction · 2,060 words
First lines
There is an elusive idea that has floated through the minds of most of us as we grew older and learnt more and more things. It is an idea extremely difficult to get into set terms. It is an idea very difficult to put so that we shall not seem nonsensical; and yet it is a very useful idea, and if it could be realized its realization would be of very practical value. It is the idea of a Dictionary of Ignorance and Error.
What this Textopian page supports
On Error is listed on Textopian as an essay by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1906 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Essay, Satire, Non-fiction, Cultural Criticism, Epistemology
- Length: 2,060 words
- Structure: 1 section, 24 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On Error by Hilaire Belloc
- 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
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- How does this essay by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- The Limitations Of Genius by Oscar Wilde
- On Inaccuracy by Hilaire Belloc
- On People In Books by Hilaire Belloc
- On The Decay Of The Art Of Lying by Mark Twain
- The Critic And His Material by Oscar Wilde
- Say It With Asterisks by Oliver Herford
Genres
- Philosophical Essay — The text explores abstract ideas about knowledge, ignorance, and error, typical of philosophical discourse.
- Satire — The work critiques societal and intellectual norms, using irony and wit to highlight the absurdity of certain beliefs.
- Non-fiction — The content is based on real-world observations and critiques rather than fictional narratives.
- Cultural Criticism — The text examines and critiques cultural and intellectual trends, particularly the unquestioning acceptance of authority.
Tags
Error · Philosophy · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Critique · Human Nature · Fallibility · Mortality · Existentialism · Absurdity · Irony