The Wish House by Rudyard Kipling

Name: The Wish House
Author: Rudyard Kipling

The narrative unfolds around two elderly women, Mrs. Ashcroft and Mrs. Fettley, who reconnect after years apart. Their conversation reveals their lives, filled with memories, regrets, and the burdens of aging. Mrs. Ashcroft, a former cook, reflects on her past, including her relationship with a man named Harry Mockler, whose life she has silently influenced through her own suffering. As they reminisce, Mrs. Ashcroft shares a peculiar story about a "Wish House," a place where one can exchange their troubles for someone else's. This concept intrigues Mrs. Fettley, who is skeptical yet fascinated. The dialogue reveals the deep emotional scars both women carry, particularly Mrs. Ashcroft, who has endured pain and loss while caring for Harry from a distance. Mrs. Ashcroft's health is deteriorating, and she grapples with the reality of her condition, which she suspects is cancer. Despite her physical ailments, she finds solace in the idea that her suffering has somehow benefited Harry, who has thrived in his work and life. The theme of sacrifice and the complexities of love permeate their conversation, highlighting the unrecognized connections between their lives. The story culminates in a poignant exploration of the nature of love, pain, and the sacrifices made for others. Mrs. Ashcroft's unwavering devotion to Harry, despite his lack of awareness of her contributions, underscores the depth of her character and the often-unseen struggles of women in their twilight years. The narrative ultimately reflects on the intertwining of lives, the weight of unspoken emotions, and the enduring power of love, even in its most painful forms.

By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1926 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary · 10,309 words

First lines

"LATE CAME THE GOD"

Late came the God, having sent his forerunners who were not regarded -- Late, but in wrath; Saying: "The wrong shall be paid, the contempt be rewarded On all that she hath. " He poisoned the blade and struck home, the full bosom receiving The wound and the venom in one, past cure or relieving.

What this Textopian page supports

The Wish House is listed on Textopian as a novella by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1926 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: 1926 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary, Magical Realism, Historical Fiction
Length: 10,309 words
Structure: 1 section, 191 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Wish House?
How does this novella by Rudyard Kipling fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores deep themes of love, sacrifice, and the human condition through rich character development and intricate dialogue.
Drama — The narrative focuses on the emotional struggles and interpersonal relationships of the characters, creating a dramatic tension throughout.
Social Commentary — The story reflects on societal norms, class distinctions, and the roles of women in early 20th-century society.
Magical Realism — The concept of the 'Wish House' introduces elements of the supernatural, blending reality with fantasy.