Little Things, but ain't they Whizzers?
The narrative unfolds in a theatrical setting, where a performer engages the audience with humor and anecdotes, emphasizing the significance of seemingly trivial matters. The performer begins with a comedic introduction, discussing the joys and challenges of parenthood, particularly the antics of babies. This leads into a song that reflects on life's small pleasures and irritations, using metaphors to illustrate how minor elements can have substantial impacts. The performer shares a poker story, highlighting how a seemingly insignificant detail—a hidden four kings—can lead to unexpected outcomes, reinforcing the theme that little things can be surprisingly powerful. The audience responds with laughter and applause, indicating their engagement with the performance. As the act progresses, the performer recounts a humorous experience of staying with fashionable people, where minor inconveniences, like insect bites, disrupt his comfort. This anecdote further emphasizes the idea that small annoyances can overshadow larger experiences. The performance culminates with a lively song about a girl who rides a bike, showcasing her bloomers and the challenges of her activity. The audience's enthusiastic reaction underscores the connection between the performer and the crowd, illustrating the joy found in life's little quirks. Overall, the work celebrates the importance of small things in life, using humor and relatable experiences to connect with the audience, while also providing a commentary on human nature and societal norms.
By O. Henry · First published 1910 · Genre: Humor, Musical Theatre, Social Commentary · 1,148 words
First lines
The following song was written for the benefit of any theatrical or musical entertainment that desires to use it in Houston. Any company rendering it outside the city is liable to a fine of $1,000,000, as it has been composed solely for the pleasure of Houston audiences, which it is sure to please. The person singing the song, if a gent, will dress in loud check trousers, tan shoes, and high white hat, advancing to the footlights, smiling, and carrying a large cane. If sung by a lady, the costume is the same, with smaller checks, and parasol instead of cane. The following lines are to be spoken: "Ladies and Gentlemen: You must excuse my hoarseness tonight, as I was up late last night rocking the baby to sleep. (_Laughter._) I love babies. (_Great laughter._) When they get molasses on their fingers and use your shirt front for a piano, it makes a man think marriage is a success, now doesn't it? (_Howls of laughter from the family circle._) Last night I came home late from the lodge (_applause_); and after I took off my shoes and slipped into the room and commenced rocking the cradle, my wife woke up and said, 'What are you doing, Charlie? ' 'I'm getting the baby quiet,' said I. 'Come to bed, you fool,' says she, 'the baby has been in bed here with me for two hours. ' (_Prolonged yells of laughter._) Babies are little things, but are very important institutions. That reminds me of a song. " (_Looks at orchestra, which strikes up at once._)
What this Textopian page supports
Little Things, but ain't they Whizzers? is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1910 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: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Humor, Musical Theatre, Social Commentary, Poetry, Satire
- Length: 1,148 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Little Things, but ain't they Whizzers? by O. Henry
- 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 Little Things, but ain't they Whizzers??
- How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Humor first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Humor — The work employs comedic elements and satire, focusing on the absurdities of everyday life.
- Musical Theatre — The format and content suggest it is intended for performance, incorporating song and theatrical elements.
- Social Commentary — The text reflects on societal norms and behaviors, particularly regarding marriage and domestic life.
- Poetry — The lyrical quality and rhythm of the text align with poetic forms.
Tags
Short Story · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Irony · Wit · Literary Fiction · American Literature · 20th Century Literature · Realism · Symbolism · Character Study