Col. L. M. Nicolson by Ring Lardner
The narrative follows a character known as "Old Nic," who reflects on his past as a cowboy while working as an assistant to the president of a large company. The story juxtaposes his current corporate life with his adventurous youth, highlighting themes of nostalgia and the contrast between the simplicity of cowboy life and the complexities of modern business. As the plot unfolds, Old Nic's memories reveal his skills and experiences from his cowboy days, showcasing his ability to handle challenges with confidence and ease. The narrative captures the essence of his character, illustrating how his past shapes his present identity and work ethic. Throughout the work, there is a blend of humor and poignancy as Old Nic navigates the corporate world, often reminiscing about the freedom and excitement of his earlier life. His reflections serve as a commentary on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with adulthood. The story also explores the relationships he forms in his current role, contrasting them with the camaraderie of his cowboy days. Old Nic's interactions with colleagues reveal a sense of disconnection, as he grapples with the demands of corporate culture that differ significantly from the straightforwardness of his past. Ultimately, the narrative encapsulates a journey of self-discovery, as Old Nic reconciles his past with his present, seeking to find meaning and fulfillment in a world that often feels alien to him. The work is a poignant exploration of identity, memory, and the enduring impact of one's formative experiences.
By Ring Lardner · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Biography · 57 words
First lines
Assistant to President, Montgomery Ward & Co.
Some days when the work's a bit slack, "Old Nic" spends an hour looking back To the cowboyhood years When he could rope steers As now he can lasso the jack.
What this Textopian page supports
Col. L. M. Nicolson is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ring Lardner, dated 1926 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: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Biography, Western, Satire
- Length: 57 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The light-hearted tone and playful language suggest a comedic approach to the subject matter.
- Biography — The title and content imply a focus on the life and experiences of a character, reflecting biographical elements.
- Western — The references to cowboyhood and roping steers indicate themes associated with Western culture.
Tags
humor · satire · American literature · short story · Ring Lardner · nostalgia · cowboy culture · workplace · presidential assistant · Montgomery Ward · rural life · identity