The Tutti-Frutti Tree
The narrative centers around a whimsical and imaginative tree known as the Tutti-Frutti Tree, which stands in a garden in New Jersey. The narrator, who claims to be the godfather of this unique tree, describes its origins as a young Apple Tree that has undergone sap transfusions, allowing it to bear a variety of fruits, including apples, quinces, pears, peaches, and plums. The tree symbolizes abundance and diversity, presenting a playful take on the concept of a tree that offers multiple choices. The narrator muses on the implications of such a tree existing in the Garden of Eden, suggesting that if the Tree of Knowledge had been a Tutti-Frutti Tree, Eve would have faced overwhelming options, leading to indecision and potentially preventing the fall of humanity. This humorous reflection highlights the absurdity of choice and the nature of temptation. The work blends elements of fantasy and satire, using the Tutti-Frutti Tree as a metaphor for the complexities of desire and decision-making. The narrator's lighthearted tone invites readers to consider the nature of knowledge, temptation, and the human experience in a world filled with choices. The narrative ultimately celebrates the joy of variety while also acknowledging the potential pitfalls of having too many options.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1911 · Genre: Fantasy, Humor, Children's Literature · 455 words
First lines
When the author of the most famous Love Song ever written, cried, "There is no new thing under the sun," cigarettes, chewing-gum, the thermos-bottle and the "snapper" for fastening ladies' frocks-(an indispensable thing when one has several hundred wives)-were yet to be invented.
Neither so far as we can learn, had Solomon who knew and could address in its own language every flower and tree in existence, ever heard of the Tutti-Frutti Tree.
What this Textopian page supports
The Tutti-Frutti Tree is listed on Textopian as a short story by Oliver Herford, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Humor, Children's Literature, Poetry, Allegory
- Length: 455 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Tutti-Frutti Tree by Oliver Herford
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Tutti-Frutti Tree?
- How does this short story by Oliver Herford fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Fantasy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Miser Elf by Oliver Herford
- The Duck And The Kangaroo by Edward Lear
- The Jumblies by Edward Lear
- Old King Cole by L. Frank Baum
- The Learned Fish by Hilaire Belloc
Genres
- Fantasy — The concept of a Tutti-Frutti Tree, which bears multiple types of fruit, embodies fantastical elements and imaginative storytelling.
- Humor — The playful tone and absurdity of the premise, along with witty observations, contribute to a humorous narrative.
- Children's Literature — The whimsical nature and simple themes make it suitable for a younger audience, often found in children's books.
- Poetry — The inclusion of verse and lyrical quality in the text aligns with poetic forms and styles.
Tags
Children's Literature · Poetry · Nonsense Verse · Humor · Imagination · Fantasy · Adventure · Trees · Fruit · Magic · Whimsy · Playfulness