Mosquitoes by Lafcadio Hearn (1925)
The novel explores the lives of a group of people living on an island in the Pacific Ocean. It delves into themes of colonialism, imperialism, and the clash between Western and Eastern cultures. The story revolves around a young woman who becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships with various characters, including a British naval officer and a local priest. Through their interactions, the novel critiques the exploitation and oppression of indigenous peoples by European colonizers.
By Lafcadio Hearn · First published 1925 · Genre: Essay, Nature Writing, Philosophical · 1,174 words
First lines
With a view to self-protection I have been reading Dr. Howard's book, "Mosquitoes. " I am persecuted by mosquitoes. There are several species in my neighborhood; but only one of them is a serious torment,-a tiny needly thing, all silver-speckled and silver-streaked. The puncture of it is sharp as an electric burn; and the mere hum of it has a lancinating quality of tone which foretells the quality of the pain about to come,-much in the same way that a particular smell suggests a particular taste. I find that this mosquito much resembles the creature which Dr. Howard calls _Stegomyia fasciata_, or _Culex fasciatus: _ and that its habits are the same as those of the _Stegomyia_. For example, it is diurnal rather than nocturnal and becomes most troublesome in the afternoon. And I have discovered that it comes from the Buddhist cemetery,-a very old cemetery,-in the rear of my garden.
What this Textopian page supports
Mosquitoes is listed on Textopian as a short story by Lafcadio Hearn, dated 1925 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Lafcadio Hearn
- Date: 1925 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Essay, Nature Writing, Philosophical, Cultural Commentary, Humor
- Length: 1,174 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Mosquitoes by Lafcadio Hearn
- 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 Mosquitoes?
- How does this short story by Lafcadio Hearn fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Essay — The work presents a reflective and analytical exploration of the relationship between humans and mosquitoes, blending personal experience with broader themes.
- Nature Writing — It vividly describes the natural environment and the behavior of mosquitoes, emphasizing the connection between nature and human life.
- Philosophical — The text delves into existential themes, including reincarnation and the implications of life and death, particularly in relation to Buddhist beliefs.
- Cultural Commentary — It critiques societal norms and practices, particularly regarding the intersection of modernity and traditional beliefs in Japan.
Tags
Experimental Fiction · Modernist Novel · Stream-of-Consciousness · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Absurdism · Social Commentary · Critique of Bourgeoisie · Marriage and Relationships · Identity Crisis · Alienation · Disillusionment