The Romancers by Saki (1926)
The narrative unfolds in a London park during autumn, where Morton Crosby, a disenchanted man, encounters a disheveled stranger. The stranger, a professional beggar, attempts to engage Crosby in conversation, claiming to have extraordinary stories. Crosby, however, dismisses the notion of marvels, asserting that fiction surpasses reality. The beggar, undeterred, shifts the conversation to his financial woes, revealing he is broke and seeking assistance. Crosby, maintaining a facade of an Afghan identity, engages in a playful exchange, suggesting that in his fictional hometown, generosity is customary. The beggar, intrigued, inquires about the possibility of receiving a loan. Crosby, however, cleverly informs him that it is against his supposed cultural customs to lend money during the months of November and December, which he claims has already begun. As the beggar grows increasingly desperate and frustrated, Crosby remains steadfast, ultimately leaving the beggar in a state of anger and disbelief. The encounter highlights themes of deception, social class, and the absurdity of human interactions, showcasing how two individuals, each with their own motives, fail to connect meaningfully. The story concludes with the beggar's bitter reflections on their exchange, emphasizing the futility of their interaction and the nature of their respective existences.
By Saki · First published 1926 · Genre: Satire, Fiction, Social Commentary · 1,661 words
First lines
It was autumn in London, that blessed season between the harshness of winter and the insincerities of summer; a trustful season when one buys bulbs and sees to the registration of one's vote, believing perpetually in spring and a change of Government.
What this Textopian page supports
The Romancers is listed on Textopian as a short story by Saki, dated 1926 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Saki
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Fiction, Social Commentary, Humor, Drama
- Length: 1,661 words
- Structure: 1 section, 42 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Romancers by Saki
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Romancers?
- How does this short story by Saki fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Dogged by Saki
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- Cousin Teresa by Saki
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Genres
- Satire — The book employs humor and irony to critique social norms and human behavior.
- Fiction — The narrative is a work of fiction, exploring invented characters and scenarios.
- Social Commentary — The dialogue reflects on societal issues, such as poverty and human relationships.
- Humor — The writing style incorporates wit and comedic elements throughout the interactions.
Tags
romance · satire · comedy · social commentary · love · deception · class differences · British literature · short story · humor · irony · character study