The Swelling of Jordan
The narrative unfolds in a bungalow in India, where Captain Gadsby grapples with the decision to leave military service for the sake of his family. He confides in Captain Mafflin about his fears and responsibilities as a husband and father, expressing concern for his wife's well-being in the harsh environment of India. Gadsby feels overwhelmed by the dangers of military life, particularly after a traumatic incident from the past that still haunts him. Mafflin challenges Gadsby's decision, emphasizing the importance of duty to the regiment and questioning whether Gadsby's fears are justified. He argues that Gadsby is abandoning not only his comrades but also his own sense of self and purpose. The conversation reveals Gadsby's internal conflict between personal safety and professional obligation, as well as the societal expectations of masculinity and bravery. As Gadsby contemplates his future, he reflects on the sacrifices that come with marriage and the impact of family on a man's career. Mafflin's attempts to persuade him to reconsider highlight the camaraderie and loyalty inherent in military life, contrasting with Gadsby's desire for domestic security. The dialogue captures the tension between personal desires and the demands of duty, ultimately leading Gadsby to a crossroads where he must choose between his family's comfort and his commitment to the regiment. The story culminates in a poignant exploration of the themes of duty, fear, and the complexities of love and responsibility. Gadsby's decision to leave the service is portrayed as both a personal failure and a necessary choice for the well-being of his family, encapsulating the struggle many face when balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations. The moral suggests that while companionship and support are valuable, the journey of life often requires individuals to navigate their paths alone, making choices that reflect their true selves.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1917 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Historical Fiction · 4,483 words
First lines
If thou hast run with the footmen and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? And if in the land of peace wherein thou trustedst they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?
SCENE. -- _The_ GADSEYS' _bungalow in the Plains, on a January morning._ MRS. G. _arguing with bearer in back veranda._
What this Textopian page supports
The Swelling of Jordan is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Historical Fiction, Military Fiction, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 4,483 words
- Structure: 1 section, 127 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Swelling of Jordan by Rudyard Kipling
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Swelling of Jordan?
- 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 Tall Dakoon by Gilbert Parker
- The Ballad Of Boh Da Thone by Rudyard Kipling
- The Golden Pipes by Gilbert Parker
- Northern Lights Volume 5 by Gilbert Parker
- Northern Lights Volume 3 by Gilbert Parker
- The Going Of The White Swan by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of duty, personal conflict, and the impact of marriage on a man's life, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Drama — The dialogue-driven narrative focuses on interpersonal relationships and emotional struggles, typical of dramatic literature.
- Historical Fiction — Set in a specific historical context involving military life in India, it reflects the social and cultural dynamics of the time.
- Military Fiction — The story revolves around military characters and their experiences, highlighting themes of courage and duty.
Tags
adventure · exploration · mystery · historical · colonialism · nature · river · journey · conflict · identity · cultural · survival