The Talking-Out of Tarrington
In a small watering place, Clovis's aunt is anxious about encountering Tarrington, a man she barely remembers but knows will seek an invitation to her picnic for a princess. Clovis offers to help her escape, but she decides to confront the situation. When Tarrington approaches Clovis, he attempts to re-establish their acquaintance, but Clovis feigns ignorance and engages in witty banter, mocking Tarrington's name and his inability to recall their previous meeting. Clovis's sharp tongue and clever remarks frustrate Tarrington, who struggles to maintain the conversation. Clovis continues to divert the discussion with absurdities, such as his aunt's supposed membership in the National Anti-Luncheon League and his vivid memories of a peach from his childhood, which he uses to illustrate his point about the importance of memorable experiences over forgettable encounters. As Tarrington grows increasingly flustered, Clovis's relentless teasing drives him away, leaving Clovis to reflect on his talent for talking people out of uncomfortable situations. He considers a future in politics, envisioning himself as an effective speaker against unwelcome proposals. The encounter highlights themes of social interaction, the absurdity of human behavior, and the art of conversation, showcasing Clovis's wit and the social dynamics of the characters involved.
By Saki · First published 1917 · Genre: Humor, Satire, Fiction · 1,174 words
First lines
"Heavens! " exclaimed the aunt of Clovis, "here's someone I know bearing down on us. I can't remember his name, but he lunched with us once in town. Tarrington -- yes, that's it. He's heard of the picnic I'm giving for the princess, and he'll cling to me like a lifebelt till I give him an invitation; then he'll ask if he may bring all his wives and mothers and sisters with him. That's the worst of these small watering-places; one can't escape from anybody."
"I'll fight a rearguard action for you if you like to do a bolt now," volunteered Clovis; "you've a clear ten yards start if you don't lose time."
What this Textopian page supports
The Talking-Out of Tarrington is listed on Textopian as a short story by Saki, 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: Saki
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Humor, Satire, Fiction, Social Commentary, Short Story
- Length: 1,174 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Talking-Out of Tarrington by Saki
- 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 Talking-Out of Tarrington?
- How does this short story by Saki fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Humor first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Excepting Mrs Pentherby by Saki
- Wratislav by Saki
- Louise by Saki
- The Unrest Cure by Saki
- Adrian by Saki
- The Stalled Ox by Saki
Genres
- Humor — The dialogue and situations are characterized by wit and irony, typical of Saki's comedic style.
- Satire — The story critiques social norms and behaviors, particularly the absurdities of social interactions in small communities.
- Fiction — The narrative is a work of fiction, presenting a fictional encounter between characters.
- Social Commentary — The text reflects on societal expectations and the nature of relationships in social settings.
Tags
satire · humor · society · class · dialogue · irony · wit · English literature · short story · character study · social commentary · absurdity