Study of an Elevation, in Indian Ink
The narrative revolves around the character of Potiphar Gubbins, a civil engineer who has inexplicably risen to prominence despite his apparent incompetence. The speaker, who feels superior in skill and experience, expresses confusion and resentment over Gubbins' success. The poem employs a satirical tone, highlighting the absurdity of Gubbins' achievements and the favoritism he receives from those in power. The speaker reflects on their own qualifications and the disparity between their capabilities and Gubbins' lackluster performance. The repeated refrain emphasizes the speaker's disbelief at Gubbins' rise, questioning the reasons behind it. The mention of Mehitabel Lee, a woman of interest to the speaker, adds a personal dimension to the narrative, suggesting that her affections may have influenced Gubbins' success. As the poem progresses, the speaker's frustration grows, revealing a deeper commentary on meritocracy and the arbitrary nature of success. The contrast between the speaker's diligence and Gubbins' carelessness serves to critique societal norms that reward mediocrity. The speaker's rhetorical questions underscore their bewilderment and challenge the reader to consider the factors that contribute to one's rise in status. Ultimately, the work encapsulates themes of envy, social dynamics, and the often capricious nature of recognition and achievement within professional hierarchies. The interplay between personal relationships and career advancement is central to the narrative, illustrating how external factors can overshadow individual merit. The poem concludes with a lingering sense of unresolved tension, leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of ambition and the nature of success.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Humor · 283 words
First lines
This ditty is a string of lies. But -- how the deuce did Gubbins rise?
POTIPHAR GUBBINS, C. E., Stands at the top of the tree; And I muse in my bed on the reasons that led To the hoisting of Potiphar G.
Potiphar Gubbins, C. E., Is seven years junior to Me; Each bridge that he makes he either buckles or breaks, And his work is as rough as he.
Potiphar Gubbins, C. E., Is coarse as a chimpanzee; And I can't understand why you gave him your hand, Lovely Mehitabel Lee.
What this Textopian page supports
Study of an Elevation, in Indian Ink is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1890 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Humor, Literary Fiction, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 283 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques social and professional hierarchies, using humor and irony to highlight the absurdity of the protagonist's situation.
- Humor — The tone and content are comedic, focusing on the ridiculousness of the characters and their circumstances.
- Literary Fiction — The work explores themes of ambition, jealousy, and societal expectations, typical of literary fiction.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · satire · humor · engineering · social commentary · class disparity · character study · irony · self-reflection · competition · relationships