What Happened by Rudyard Kipling
The narrative follows Hurree Chunder Mookerjee, a native of Bow Bazaar who owns a press and seeks to acquire weapons, claiming a right to bear arms. The Indian Government, while initially skeptical, grants him permission, leading Mookerjee to purchase various firearms and a knife, reveling in his newfound power. However, this decision inadvertently allows other dangerous individuals, including notorious criminals and warriors, to also obtain weapons. These men, emboldened by the government's leniency, unite with a shared intent to return to a state of conflict, reminiscent of past glories. They gather arms and prepare for war, each character showcasing their unique backgrounds and motivations. The atmosphere shifts as they march towards Bow Bazaar, ready to engage in violence. As the story unfolds, the fate of Mookerjee becomes uncertain. The narrative hints at his disappearance amidst the chaos, while the armed men revel in their spoils. The weapons intended for Mookerjee are quickly sold off or claimed by others, illustrating the consequences of his actions. The poem concludes with a sense of ambiguity regarding Mookerjee's fate, leaving readers to ponder the outcomes of unchecked ambition and the volatility of power. The work critiques the complexities of colonialism, identity, and the unpredictable nature of human conflict.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1924 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Historical Fiction · 594 words
First lines
Hurree Chunder Mookerjee, pride of Bow Bazaar, Owner of a native press, "Barrishter-at-Lar," Waited on the Government with a claim to wear Sabres by the bucketful, rifles by the pair.
Then the Indian Government winked a wicked wink, Said to Chunder Mookerjee: "Stick to pen and ink. They are safer implements, but, if you insist, We will let you carry arms wheresoe'er you list."
What this Textopian page supports
What Happened is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1924 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1924 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Historical Fiction, Political Commentary, Adventure
- Length: 594 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Minor Canon by Anonymous
- The Long Bow by G. K. Chesterton
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- The Oubit 260 by Charles Kingsley
- On The Gate by Rudyard Kipling
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques colonial attitudes and the absurdity of the situation regarding arms and governance.
- Historical Fiction — It reflects historical contexts and characters from colonial India, blending fact with fiction.
- Political Commentary — The themes address political issues related to colonialism and governance in India.
Tags
adventure · mystery · fantasy · exploration · narrative · historical · allegory · imagination · conflict · courage · identity · society