Wm. H. Ranking by Ring Lardner
The narrative follows the life of an advertising expert who relocates from New Albany to Chicago, highlighting the impact of his move on both locations. The protagonist, known for his successful advertising campaigns, is celebrated for his contributions to war drives, which have garnered him respect and gratitude from his former community. As the story unfolds, the protagonist navigates the challenges of his new environment, adapting to the fast-paced world of Chicago's advertising scene. He encounters various characters, including colleagues and clients, each representing different facets of the industry. The protagonist's expertise is tested as he faces competition and the evolving demands of advertising in a bustling urban landscape. The work delves into themes of ambition, identity, and the complexities of professional relationships. The protagonist's journey reflects the tension between personal aspirations and the expectations of the corporate world. His interactions reveal the nuances of collaboration and rivalry, as well as the moral dilemmas inherent in the advertising profession. Throughout the narrative, the protagonist grapples with the consequences of his success, questioning the ethical implications of his work. The story captures the essence of the advertising industry during a transformative period, illustrating how personal and professional lives intertwine. The protagonist's reflections on his past in New Albany serve as a contrast to his current life, emphasizing the sacrifices made in pursuit of career advancement. The narrative ultimately explores the idea of belonging and the search for fulfillment in a rapidly changing society. The protagonist's journey is marked by moments of introspection, as he weighs the value of his achievements against the relationships left behind. In conclusion, the work presents a multifaceted exploration of the advertising world through the lens of a skilled professional, highlighting the interplay between personal ambition and the broader societal context. The protagonist's experiences resonate with the challenges faced by many in the pursuit of success, making the narrative both relatable and thought-provoking.
By Ring Lardner · First published 1916 · Genre: Satire, Humor, Fiction · 59 words
First lines
Advertising Expert, Chicago Our gain is New Albany's loss, But we're glad that you moved here, old hoss, And Samuel's stil thankin' you, Hoosier Bill Rankin -- you Sure put those war drives across!
What this Textopian page supports
Wm. H. Ranking is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ring Lardner, dated 1916 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: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Humor, Fiction, Social Commentary, Poetry
- Length: 59 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Wm. H. Ranking 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 Wm. H. Ranking?
- How does this poem by Ring Lardner fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Satire — The work critiques societal norms and behaviors through humor and irony.
- Humor — The writing employs comedic elements to convey its messages.
- Fiction — The narrative is a fictional portrayal of characters and events.
- Social Commentary — The text reflects on social issues and the impact of advertising.
Tags
Advertising · Chicago · Poetry · Humor · Satire · War · Community · Loss · Gratitude · Identity · Regionalism · American Literature