Pennarby Mine by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Name: Pennarby Mine
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

A wealthy stranger visits a mining site, dressed in fine clothing and exhibiting a lack of understanding of the miners' world. The miners, amused by his presence, engage in light-hearted banter while explaining the dangers and realities of their work. The stranger's curiosity leads him to inquire about the minerals being extracted, and he attempts to participate, despite the miners' warnings about the risks involved. As he leans over the shaft to observe the workings, a sudden accident occurs, causing him to fall. The miners react with alarm, urging him to wait for the bucket and warning him about the worn rope. Tension escalates as they witness him clinging to a precarious ledge, fearing for his life. In a moment of collective effort, the miners manage to rescue him, pulling him back to safety. The incident reveals the stark contrast between the stranger's privileged background and the miners' gritty reality. Despite his initial appearance and demeanor, the miners acknowledge his courage, suggesting that true character is defined by actions rather than attire. The story concludes with a sense of camaraderie, as the miners welcome the stranger back, recognizing the shared humanity that transcends social class.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1923 · Genre: Poetry, Narrative, Drama · 592 words

First lines

Pennarby shaft is dark and steep, / Eight foot wide, eight hundred deep. / Stout the bucket and tough the cord, / Strong as the arm of Winchman Ford. / ‘Never look down! / Stick to the line! ' / That was the saying at Pennarby mine.

A stranger came to Pennarby shaft. / Lord, to see how the miners laughed! / White in the collar and stiff in the hat, / With his patent boots and his silk cravat, / Picking his way, / Dainty and fine, / Stepping on tiptoe to Pennarby mine.

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Pennarby Mine is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1923 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1923 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Narrative, Drama, Social Commentary, Adventure
Length: 592 words
Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Narrative — The poem tells a story about the interactions between miners and a visitor, showcasing a narrative arc.
Drama — The poem presents dramatic tension and character interactions, particularly during the rescue scene.
Social Commentary — The poem contrasts the lives of miners with that of an upper-class visitor, reflecting on social class dynamics.