The Odd Trick by P. G. Wodehouse

Name: The Odd Trick
Author: P. G. Wodehouse

The story revolves around Philip St. H. Harrison, a cunning and manipulative student who uses diplomacy and trickery to achieve his goals. He is known for taking care of himself and often gets away with mischief. However, he has his failures, such as the incident involving Tony Graham's mackintosh. Harrison's behavior is a mix of geniality and ruthlessness. He can be charming and agreeable when it suits him, but also willing to resort to underhanded tactics when necessary. His actions often have unintended consequences, which he tries to mitigate with his quick wit and charm. The story explores the theme of accountability and the consequences of one's actions. Harrison's behavior is eventually exposed, and he faces repercussions for his actions. The narrative suggests that those who engage in deceitful behavior will ultimately be held accountable. Harrison's relationships with others are also a key aspect of the story. He has a complex dynamic with Tony Graham, who is both his friend and adversary. Their interactions are often tense and confrontational, reflecting the underlying power struggle between them. The narrative also touches on the theme of social hierarchy and class differences within the school. Harrison's behavior is often motivated by a desire to maintain his status and avoid punishment. The story suggests that those who are privileged or well-connected may be able to get away with more than others. Overall, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of a complex character and explores themes of accountability, social hierarchy, and the consequences of one's actions.

By P. G. Wodehouse · First published 1923 · Genre: Comedy, Fiction, Short Stories · 2,748 words

First lines

The attitude of Philip St. H. Harrison, of Merevale's House, towards his fellow-man was outwardly one of genial and even sympathetic toleration. Did his form-master intimate that his conduct was not his idea of what Young England's conduct should be, P. St. H. Harrison agreed cheerfully with every word he said, warmly approved his intention of laying the matter before the Headmaster, and accepted his punishment with the air of a waiter booking an order for a chump chop and fried potatoes. But the next day there would be a squeaking desk in the form-room, just to show the master that he had not been forgotten. Or, again, did the captain of his side at football speak rudely to him on the subject of kicking the ball through in the scrum, Harrison would smile gently, and at the earliest opportunity tread heavily on the captain's toe. In short, he was a youth who made a practice of taking very good care of himself. Yet he had his failures.

What this Textopian page supports

The Odd Trick is listed on Textopian as a short story by P. G. Wodehouse, dated 1923 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: P. G. Wodehouse
Date: 1923 CE
Language: English
Genres: Comedy, Fiction, Short Stories, Classic Literature, British Literature
Length: 2,748 words
Structure: 1 section, 64 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for The Odd Trick by P. G. Wodehouse
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 Odd Trick?
How does this short story by P. G. Wodehouse fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Comedy first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Comedy — P. G. Wodehouse is known for his humorous and witty writing style, which is prevalent in 'The Odd Trick'.
Fiction — Like most of P. G. Wodehouse's works, 'The Odd Trick' is a fictional story created by the author.
Short Stories — 'The Odd Trick' is one of the short stories written by P. G. Wodehouse.
Classic Literature — P. G. Wodehouse's 'The Odd Trick' is considered a piece of classic literature because it was written by a prominent author of the 20th century.