Delilah by Rudyard Kipling (1910)
The narrative centers on Delilah Aberyswith, a woman of social standing in colonial India, who is well-connected due to her marriage to a powerful man. She possesses a keen interest in gossip and a desire for admiration, living in Simla during a time of political intrigue. Delilah becomes involved with Ulysses Gunne, a writer of questionable reputation who flatters her and seeks her favor. Their relationship is marked by a blend of personal and professional interests, as Gunne relies on Delilah's insider knowledge to advance his own ambitions. The plot thickens when Delilah learns a significant secret related to a Viceroy's appointment, which she is not meant to disclose. Despite the potential consequences, she shares this information with Gunne, who is eager to exploit it for his own gain. Their interactions are characterized by flirtation and manipulation, culminating in a moment where Delilah, under the influence of the setting sun and the atmosphere of romance, reveals the secret. The fallout from this revelation is swift and severe. The political ramifications shake the Empire, leading to the Aged Councillor's distress and a broader sense of scandal. Delilah, once the center of attention, quickly distances herself from Gunne, labeling him a "beast" in the aftermath of the chaos they have created together. The poem concludes with a reflection on the transient nature of power and the shifting dynamics of colonial society, marking the end of an era defined by Delilah and Gunne's actions.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Literary Fiction · 558 words
First lines
We have another viceroy now, -- those days are dead and done Of Delilah Aberyswith and depraved Ulysses Gunne.
Delilah Aberyswith was a lady -- not too young -- With a perfect taste in dresses and a badly-bitted tongue, With a thirst for information, and a greater thirst for praise, And a little house in Simla in the Prehistoric Days.
What this Textopian page supports
Delilah is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 558 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques social and political dynamics, particularly the relationships of power and influence.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex characters and themes, focusing on personal and societal issues.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and context reflect historical elements related to colonial India.
Tags
Delilah · Rudyard Kipling · poetry · satire · colonialism · India · gossip · secrets · romance · politics · viceroy · social commentary