Garm -- a Hostage by Rudyard Kipling
The narrative unfolds in a military cantonment in India, where the protagonist recounts an encounter with a soldier friend who, after a drunken escapade, gifts him a remarkable bull-terrier. The dog, initially unnamed, displays extraordinary intelligence and loyalty, quickly forming a bond with the protagonist. The soldier, feeling guilty for his behavior, decides to part with the dog as a form of penance, believing that the dog will serve as a "hostage" for his good conduct. As the story progresses, the protagonist names the dog "Garm," after a mythical creature known for its loyalty and bravery. Garm proves his worth by defending the protagonist's smaller fox-terrier, Vixen, from a pack of pariah dogs, showcasing his protective instincts. Despite the bond that develops between Garm and the protagonist, it becomes evident that Garm's true loyalty lies with his original master, the soldier. The soldier's struggle with alcoholism leads him to avoid Garm, believing that keeping the dog away will help him stay sober. This separation causes distress for both Garm and the soldier, as Garm becomes increasingly despondent in the protagonist's care, longing for his true master. The protagonist observes Garm's behavior and recognizes the deep emotional connection between the dog and the soldier. As the narrative unfolds, the soldier is ordered to the hills for health reasons, and the protagonist attempts to reunite them. The soldier's reluctance to reclaim Garm stems from his belief that he must prove his worthiness first. The protagonist, understanding the bond they share, seeks to facilitate their reunion. The climax occurs when the protagonist finally brings Garm to the soldier in the hills. The reunion is emotional, with Garm joyfully leaping into the soldier's arms, signifying the restoration of their bond. The soldier, rejuvenated by Garm's presence, expresses his commitment to change and care for the dog. The story concludes with a sense of resolution, as both man and dog find happiness together again, highlighting themes of loyalty, redemption, and the profound connections between humans and their pets. The narrative emphasizes the idea that true companionship transcends ownership, and that love and loyalty can lead to personal transformation.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1890 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Animal Fiction · 9,185 words
First lines
One night, a very long time ago, I drove to an Indian military cantonment called Mian Mir to see amateur theatricals. At the back of the Infantry barracks a soldier, his cap over one eye, rushed in front of the horses and shouted that he was a dangerous highway robber. As a matter of fact, he was a friend of mine, so I told him to go home before any one caught him; but he fell under the pole, and I heard voices of a military guard in search of some one.
What this Textopian page supports
Garm -- a Hostage is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Animal Fiction, Drama, Historical Fiction
- Length: 9,185 words
- Structure: 1 section, 105 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Garm -- a Hostage by Rudyard Kipling
- 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 Garm -- a Hostage?
- How does this short story by Rudyard Kipling fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Shadow Of His Hand by Rudyard Kipling
- One Crowded Hour by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- The Frying Pan And The Fire by John Buchan
- The Guardian Of The Fire by Gilbert Parker
- The Ordeal by Rafael Sabatini
- The Valley Of The Shadow by Rudyard Kipling
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores deep emotional themes, character development, and the bond between humans and animals.
- Adventure — The story includes elements of adventure through the experiences of the protagonist and the dog in a military setting.
- Animal Fiction — The central character is a dog, and the story focuses on the relationship between the dog and its owner.
- Drama — The plot contains dramatic elements, particularly the emotional struggles of the characters.
Tags
hostage · adventure · courage · loyalty · friendship · betrayal · survival · conflict · war · sacrifice · bravery · rescue