A. F. Brockman by Ring Lardner
The narrative centers around a character known as "Brock," who is depicted as a diligent and principled individual working in a department at The Fair in Chicago. The story contrasts Brock's integrity and adherence to rules with the behavior of others who often engage in dishonest or unethical practices, both in golf and in business. Brock is portrayed as someone who values fairness and consistency, suggesting that he approaches both his professional life and leisure activities with the same level of commitment and honesty. The work explores themes of integrity, the challenges of maintaining one's principles in a corrupt environment, and the social dynamics within the workplace. As the story unfolds, Brock's interactions with colleagues reveal the tension between his values and the more unscrupulous behaviors of those around him. The narrative employs humor and satire to critique the moral compromises that individuals often make in pursuit of success. Through Brock's experiences, the work examines the broader implications of ethical conduct in both personal and professional realms, ultimately advocating for the importance of staying true to one's principles despite external pressures. The character's steadfastness serves as a commentary on the nature of success and the cost of integrity in a competitive world. The story is rich with character development, showcasing Brock's resilience and the impact of his choices on his relationships and career. The contrast between Brock and his peers highlights the complexities of human behavior and the varying motivations that drive individuals in their pursuits. Overall, the work presents a nuanced exploration of morality, ambition, and the personal cost of adhering to one's values in a society that often rewards the opposite.
By Ring Lardner · First published 1914 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Satire, Humor · 61 words
First lines
Dept. Mgr., The Fair, Chicago Some guys -- we've all met quite a few --
Can't seem to go straight or aim true.
"Brock" doesn't play their way; He sticks to the Fair way In golf and in business, too.
What this Textopian page supports
A. F. Brockman is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ring Lardner, dated 1914 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ring Lardner
- Date: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Satire, Humor, Sports Fiction, Drama
- Length: 61 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A. F. Brockman by Ring Lardner
- 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 A. F. Brockman?
- How does this poem by Ring Lardner fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores character development and social themes through a narrative style.
- Satire — The text critiques societal norms and behaviors, particularly in business and sports.
- Humor — The writing employs wit and irony to convey its messages.
- Sports Fiction — Golf serves as a central theme, reflecting on competition and personal integrity.
Tags
Ring Lardner · A. F. Brockman · poetry · humor · satire · business · golf · Chicago · character study · social commentary · American literature · early 20th century