The Wrong Floor by Oliver Herford
A powerful Emperor, seeking entry to heaven, confronts Saint Peter at the gates. He demands access, asserting his status and authority. However, Saint Peter informs him that he is in the wrong place, as the waiting list is occupied by martyrs who have suffered due to emperors like him. The Emperor, faced with rejection and the realization of his misplaced confidence, is left to descend back down, acknowledging his unworthiness. The narrative critiques the hubris of power and the consequences of one's actions, emphasizing that status does not guarantee entry into the afterlife. The work employs humor and irony to convey its message about humility and the true nature of merit.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Fantasy · 211 words
First lines
A certain Emperor (This is a censored tale) Once pounded on the door Of heaven with fist of mail.
Cried Peter from within, Awakened by the row, "Stop that infernal din! Who are you, anyhow?"
"Don't bandy words with me! " Thundered the visitor. "All doors to me are free. I am the Emperor."
"If you're an Emperor," Said Peter, "then I fear You've come to the wrong floor. We take no Emperors here.
What this Textopian page supports
The Wrong Floor is listed on Textopian as a short story by Oliver Herford, dated 1912 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: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Fantasy, Humor, Allegory
- Length: 211 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Wrong Floor 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 Wrong Floor?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques authority and power through the absurdity of an Emperor being denied access to heaven.
- Fantasy — The setting involves a supernatural realm, featuring figures like Saint Peter and an Emperor, indicative of fantasy elements.
- Humor — The poem employs wit and irony, particularly in the Emperor's predicament, creating a humorous tone.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Absurdity · Dark Comedy · Literary Fiction · Short Story Collection · Anthology · Poetry · Verse · Nonsensical · Playful