The Betrothed by Rudyard Kipling
The narrative revolves around a man's internal conflict regarding love and commitment. He is faced with a choice between marrying Maggie, a woman he finds attractive and loving, and maintaining his bachelor lifestyle, which he equates with freedom and pleasure. The protagonist reflects on the nature of love, comparing it to cigars—temporary pleasures that can be enjoyed but ultimately discarded. He contemplates the implications of marriage, envisioning a future where Maggie ages and their love fades, much like a cigar that is smoked and thrown away. The man weighs the idea of a singular, lifelong commitment against the allure of multiple partners, suggesting that a harem of women might provide companionship without the complications of jealousy and rivalry. As he considers his options, he recalls the joys of his bachelor days filled with friendship, work, and leisure. The metaphor of the "Will-o'-the-Wisp of Love" symbolizes the uncertainty and potential pitfalls of romantic relationships. Ultimately, he grapples with the societal expectations of marriage versus his desire for independence and enjoyment of life. In the end, he resolves to prioritize his freedom, declaring that if Maggie cannot accept a life without rivals, he will choose to remain single. The work explores themes of love, choice, and the tension between societal norms and personal desires.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Romance · 809 words
First lines
"You must choose between me and your cigar. " -- BREACH OF PROMISE CASE, CIRCA 1885.
Open the old cigar-box, get me a Cuba stout, For things are running crossways, and Maggie and I are out.
What this Textopian page supports
The Betrothed is listed on Textopian as a novella by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Romance, Humor, Social Commentary
- Length: 809 words
- Structure: 1 section, 27 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- In Armour by Gilbert Parker
- The Crowning by Gilbert Parker
- The Bride by Gilbert Parker
- A Tale Of Two Cities by Rudyard Kipling
- Aloes And Myrrh by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques societal norms regarding marriage and relationships, using humor and irony.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and the complexities of romantic relationships.
- Humor — The poem contains comedic elements and a light-hearted tone in discussing serious topics.
Tags
love · betrayal · marriage · adventure · cultural conflict · colonialism · identity · sacrifice · tradition · family · loyalty · honor