What does the monkey paw do? This intriguing question brings to mind the famous short story by W. W. Jacobs, “The Monkey’s Paw.” Set in the late 19th century, the story revolves around a mysterious talisman known as the monkey paw, which grants its owner three wishes but comes with a sinister price. In this article, we will delve into the significance of the monkey paw and its impact on the lives of those who dared to use it.
The monkey paw is a peculiar artifact with a paw-like hand, which is said to possess supernatural powers. According to the story, the paw was acquired by a British soldier during the Indian Mutiny of 1857. After the soldier’s death, the paw was passed down through generations, eventually ending up in the hands of the White family, who reside in a quaint English countryside home.
The White family, consisting of Mr. White, his wife, and their two children, Sarah and Tommy, is struggling financially. Mr. White, desperate for a solution, discovers the monkey paw in his late father’s attic. He is intrigued by the paw’s legend and decides to test its powers. The first wish granted to Mr. White is the recovery of a lost horse, which he believes will improve his family’s fortune.
However, the second wish, which Mr. White requests for his son’s safety, has dire consequences. The wish inadvertently leads to the tragic death of Tommy, as a car accident occurs on the family’s property. Devastated by the loss of his son, Mr. White decides to make a third wish, hoping to reverse the second wish and save Tommy’s life.
The third wish is granted, but it brings about an even more sinister outcome. The monkey paw, having exhausted its powers, demands a life in exchange for the reversal of the second wish. Mr. White, now haunted by the paw’s curse, is forced to make a difficult decision. In a final act of despair, he wishes for the paw to disappear, only to find himself trapped in a relentless cycle of death and despair.
The monkey paw serves as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of greed and the unforeseen consequences of our desires. It highlights the idea that sometimes, the pursuit of our wishes can lead to a chain of events that we never anticipated. The story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us to be wary of the power we wield and the potential consequences that may arise from our actions.
In conclusion, the monkey paw, as depicted in W. W. Jacobs’ “The Monkey’s Paw,” is a mysterious talisman that grants its owner three wishes but comes with a dark and sinister price. The story serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of our desires and the unforeseen consequences that may arise from our actions. What does the monkey paw do? It leaves a lasting impact on the lives of those who dare to use it.
