The Lotus and the Cockleburrs
A young woman inherits a large sum of money from her uncle and decides to use it to help those less fortunate than herself. She sets up a foundation to provide aid to the poor and needy in her community, but her efforts are met with skepticism by some who question her motives.
By O. Henry · First published 1907 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy, Adventure · 6,909 words
First lines
There are yet tales of the Spanish Main. That grim coast washed by the tempestuous Caribbean, and presenting to the sea a formidable border of tropical jungle topped by the overweening Cordilleras, is still begirt by mystery and romance.
What this Textopian page supports
The Lotus and the Cockleburrs is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy, Adventure, Satire, Historical Fiction
- Length: 6,909 words
- Structure: 1 section, 108 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Lotus and the Cockleburrs 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 The Lotus and the Cockleburrs?
- How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The World And The Door by O. Henry
- A Ruler Of Men by O. Henry
- The Trimmed Lamp by O. Henry
- The Unprofitable Servant by O. Henry
- Thimble Thimble by O. Henry
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of love, ambition, and social class through character-driven narratives.
- Romantic Comedy — The plot centers around romantic entanglements and humorous situations arising from misunderstandings and social dynamics.
- Adventure — The setting along the Spanish Main and the protagonist's journey to a foreign land contribute to an adventurous backdrop.
- Satire — The story critiques social norms and business practices through irony and humor, particularly in the context of commerce and relationships.
Tags
Short Story · American Literature · Realism · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Class Conflict · Poverty · Wealth · Inequality · Morality Tale · Fable