Charge of the White Brigade
A group of four young women, dressed in white and pale blue, enter a drugstore seeking refreshment. They order phosphate drinks, intrigued by the copper apparatus used for mixing. The clerk explains its function, and the girls, captivated by the experience, decide to leave without paying, asking to charge their drinks instead. This act of youthful exuberance and carefree attitude sets the tone for their character and the unfolding narrative. As the story progresses, the girls' actions reflect a blend of innocence and a sense of entitlement, showcasing their social status and the carefree nature of their lives. Their interactions reveal a playful camaraderie, emphasizing their youth and the frivolity of their concerns. The narrative captures the essence of a moment in their lives, highlighting themes of social class, youthful rebellion, and the fleeting nature of such carefree days. The plot thickens as the girls navigate their social environment, encountering various characters that challenge their perceptions and actions. The consequences of their decision to charge their drinks become a focal point, leading to reflections on responsibility and the implications of their choices. The story juxtaposes their lighthearted demeanor with the realities of adult life, creating a tension between innocence and the inevitable transition into maturity. Throughout the work, the author employs vivid imagery and playful language, immersing the reader in the girls' world. The setting serves as a backdrop for their adventures, with the drugstore symbolizing both a place of indulgence and a catalyst for their growth. As the narrative unfolds, the girls are faced with situations that test their values and friendships, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in society. The conclusion of the story brings a resolution to their escapades, prompting the characters to confront the consequences of their actions. The girls' journey reflects a universal theme of growing up, as they learn to balance their desires with the realities of life. The narrative encapsulates a moment in time, leaving the reader with a sense of nostalgia for the innocence of youth and the lessons learned along the way.
By O. Henry · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary · 180 words
First lines
Mehitabel, Claribel, Bessie, and Sue All in white lawn and ribbons pale blue. Went into a drug store; each sat on a stool, And called for some phosphate to make them all cool. "Oh! what is that big copper thing over there? " Asked Bessie the gay one, asked Bessie the fair. "Why that," said the clerk, "is the thing with which we Charge the phosphate and soda we sell, don't you see? " "How nice," said bright Bessie and then they all rose, And shook out their ruffles and beautiful clothes; "Please charge those we had," said the girls -- then they flew, Mehitabel, Claribel, Bessie, and Sue.
What this Textopian page supports
Charge of the White Brigade is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: O. Henry
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, Children's Literature, Slice of Life
- Length: 180 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Charge of the White Brigade by O. Henry
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Humor — The light-hearted tone and playful interactions among characters suggest a humorous intent.
- Social Commentary — The depiction of social behaviors and norms among the characters reflects societal observations.
- Children's Literature — The simplicity of language and whimsical nature of the characters make it suitable for a younger audience.
Tags
Satire · Social Commentary · American Literature · Short Story · Irony · Humor · Critique of Society · Class Struggle · Racial Tensions · Historical Context · Civil War Era · Southern Culture