A Novel of Color

Name: A Novel of Color
Author: Voltairine De Cleyre

The narrative unfolds in a whimsical setting where three chipmunks, vibrant and playful, engage in their daily activities of nut-cracking and chirping. They express a sense of superiority over an elephant, who is depicted as large, white, and unfortunate, suffering from hunger and dirtiness. The chipmunks, in their green glory, mock the elephant's color and condition, suggesting that if he were like them, he would be thriving. As the story progresses, the chipmunks decide to take advantage of the elephant's plight. They leap onto him, covering him entirely, and engage in a playful yet chaotic interaction, munching on his ears and chin. Their antics are filled with joy, as they revel in their dominance over the elephant, who remains passive and seemingly unbothered by their actions. However, a sudden change occurs when the chipmunks, in their exuberance, inadvertently turn blue. The elephant, now smiling peacefully, lifts a tree trunk, causing the chipmunks to panic, believing he is stealing their home. The story culminates in a humorous exchange where the chipmunks realize their own transformation and the absurdity of their situation. The work explores themes of color, identity, and the dynamics of power in a playful, allegorical manner, using animal characters to reflect on human behaviors and societal norms. The chipmunks' initial confidence is challenged by their unexpected change, prompting a reflection on the nature of self-perception and the arbitrary standards of worth based on appearance.

By Voltairine De Cleyre · First published 1910 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Fable · 530 words

First lines

(The following is a true and particular account of what happened on the night of December 11, 1895; but it is likely to be unintelligible to all save the Chipmunks and the Elephant, who, however, will no doubt recognize themselves.)

Chipmunks three sat on a tree, And they were as green as green could be; They cracked nuts early, they cracked nuts late, And chirruped and chirruped, and ate and ate; " 'Tis a pity of chipmunks without nuts, And a gnawing hunger in their guts; But they should be wise like you and me, And color themselves to suit the tree.

What this Textopian page supports

A Novel of Color is listed on Textopian as a poem by Voltairine De Cleyre, dated 1910 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Voltairine De Cleyre
Date: 1910 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Fable, Fantasy, Humor
Length: 530 words
Structure: 1 section, 26 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Children's Literature — The whimsical narrative and playful characters appeal to a young audience, featuring animals and simple themes.
Poetry — The work employs rhythmic and lyrical language, characteristic of poetic forms.
Fable — The story conveys moral lessons through anthropomorphized animals, typical of fables.
Fantasy — The imaginative elements, such as talking animals and surreal scenarios, place it within the fantasy genre.