The Jacket by Rudyard Kipling (1902)

Name: The Jacket
Author: Rudyard Kipling

A group of horse gunners is engaged in military operations in a desert setting, chasing an enemy force. The narrative is delivered through a series of verses that highlight the camaraderie and irreverent spirit of the soldiers, particularly focusing on their Captain, who possesses a new jacket that symbolizes authority and pride. The soldiers are tasked with shelling a sand redoubt but the Captain, prioritizing their morale, substitutes ammunition with liquor, leading to a mix of humor and recklessness. As they proceed, they maintain a careful pace to avoid breaking the bottles of beer they carry, showcasing their desire for enjoyment amidst the chaos of battle. Despite the enemy's fire, the gunners manage to fire their limited shells economically while dreaming of the drinks they long for. The Captain's leadership is characterized by a blend of duty and indulgence, as he takes risks that prioritize the crew's spirits over strict military protocol. As the situation escalates, they consume more liquor, leaving behind their wounded comrades with empty bottles, and use their artillery in unconventional ways. The narrative captures the absurdity of war, where the soldiers find joy in their shared experiences, even as they face danger. Ultimately, they manage to evade serious consequences for their actions, joining the main command with a sense of triumph, despite their inebriation. The Captain's jacket remains a central symbol throughout, representing both the burdens of leadership and the lightheartedness that can exist even in dire circumstances. The work reflects themes of camaraderie, the absurdity of war, and the human need for levity in the face of adversity.

By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1902 · Genre: War Poetry, Humor, Narrative Poetry · 703 words

First lines

Through the Plagues of Egyp' we was chasin' Arabi, Gettin' down an' shovin' in the sun; An' you might 'ave called us dirty, an' you might ha' called us dry, An' you might 'ave 'eard us talkin' at the gun. But the Captain 'ad 'is jacket, an' the jacket it was new -- ('Orse Gunners, listen to my song! ) An' the wettin' of the jacket is the proper thing to do, Nor we didn't keep 'im waitin' very long.

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The Jacket is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1902 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Rudyard Kipling
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: War Poetry, Humor, Narrative Poetry, British Colonial Literature, Satire
Length: 703 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Jacket?
How does this poem by Rudyard Kipling fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

War Poetry — The poem depicts military life and experiences during a conflict, focusing on the camaraderie and challenges faced by soldiers.
Humor — The light-hearted tone and humorous situations, particularly involving the Captain and the liquor, contribute to a comedic portrayal of war.
Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story with a clear narrative structure, detailing events and characters in a sequential manner.
British Colonial Literature — The setting and themes reflect the British colonial experience, particularly in relation to military engagements in foreign lands.