The Busher Reenlists by Ring Lardner
The narrative follows a former baseball player, recently returned from military service, as he grapples with the decision of whether to re-enter the world of professional baseball or pursue a more stable business career. The protagonist, Jack, reflects on his experiences during the war and how they have altered his perspective on life and work. He expresses a desire to prioritize his family and find a job that offers long-term security rather than the transient nature of baseball. Throughout his correspondence with a friend named Al, Jack shares his thoughts on various job offers and the challenges he faces in transitioning from sports to business. He encounters skepticism from potential employers who question his lack of experience in the business world, despite his successful career as a pitcher and his military service. Jack's humorous and candid observations about the absurdities of both the job market and his past experiences in baseball provide insight into his character. As the story progresses, Jack receives a contract offer from his former team, the White Sox, but is disappointed by the low salary compared to what he previously earned. This prompts him to consider his options more seriously. Ultimately, he decides to return to baseball, motivated by loyalty to his former manager, Gleason, and the camaraderie of his teammates. Jack's decision reflects a blend of personal ambition and a sense of duty, as he aims to prove himself once again on the field. The work captures the tension between personal aspirations and familial responsibilities, highlighting the protagonist's internal conflict as he navigates the complexities of post-war life. Jack's journey illustrates the broader themes of identity, purpose, and the search for fulfillment in a rapidly changing world.
By Ring Lardner · First published 1924 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Humor, Epistolary · 9,205 words
First lines
Chi, Dec. 2.
Friend Al: Well Al I was down to see the Dr. for the last time today as he said they wasn't no use in me comeing down there again as my arm is just as good is new though of course its weak yet on acct. of being in a sling all this wile and I haven't used it and I suppose if it was my right arm it would take me a long wile to get it strenthened up again to where I could zip the old ball through there the way like I use to but thank god its the left arm that the Dutchmens shot full of holes. But at that it wouldn't make no differents if it was the left arm or the old souper either one as I have gave up the idear of going back in to the old game.
What this Textopian page supports
The Busher Reenlists is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ring Lardner, dated 1924 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Ring Lardner
- Date: 1924 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Humor, Epistolary, Sports Fiction, Historical Fiction
- Length: 9,205 words
- Structure: 1 section, 89 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Busher Reenlists by Ring Lardner
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Busher Reenlists?
- How does this short story by Ring Lardner fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Busher Beats It Hence by Ring Lardner
- Along Came Ruth by Ring Lardner
- Private Valentine by Ring Lardner
- Call For Mr Keefe by Ring Lardner
- The Busher Pulls A Mays by Ring Lardner
- The Busher Comes Back by Ring Lardner
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of identity, personal ambition, and the impact of war on life choices, presented through a character-driven narrative.
- Humor — The writing style employs wit and sarcasm, particularly in the protagonist's observations and interactions, creating a humorous tone throughout.
- Epistolary — The story is structured as a series of letters, providing an intimate glimpse into the protagonist's thoughts and experiences.
- Sports Fiction — The narrative centers around baseball, reflecting the protagonist's career and the sport's cultural significance.
Tags
baseball · military · humor · satire · American literature · World War I · sports fiction · comedy · drama · character study · dialogue-driven · social commentary