What does Mr. White wish for in “The Monkey’s Paw”?
In W. W. Jacobs’ classic short story “The Monkey’s Paw,” Mr. White, the protagonist, is presented with a mysterious and enchanted paw that grants him three wishes. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the wishes have dire consequences, and Mr. White is left to ponder what he truly wishes for in the face of such perilous magic.
At the beginning of the story, Mr. White and his wife, Mrs. White, are facing financial hardship. The monkey’s paw, a relic with a history of granting wishes, is brought into their lives by a friend who believes it is cursed. Despite the warnings, Mr. White, driven by desperation, decides to use the paw to secure his family’s financial future.
In his first wish, Mr. White desires money, hoping that the paw’s magic will solve his family’s financial troubles. Unfortunately, the wish is granted, but at a high cost. His son, Herbert, is killed in an accident, and Mr. White is left with a sense of guilt and despair. This first wish highlights the theme of the dangers of greed and the unintended consequences of one’s desires.
The second wish is made by Mrs. White, who wishes for her son’s return. This wish, however, brings back a vengeful spirit, causing even more pain and suffering for the Whites. This demonstrates that not all wishes can be fulfilled in the way one desires, and that some wishes may bring about even greater misfortune.
Finally, Mr. White, realizing the paw’s true nature, decides to use his last wish to restore Herbert’s life. This wish is granted, but at the expense of Mr. White’s own life. In the end, Mr. White is left with the chilling realization that the monkey’s paw can only bring about misfortune, and that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found through the granting of wishes.
In conclusion, “The Monkey’s Paw” raises the question of what Mr. White truly wishes for. Throughout the story, his desires are driven by a desire for financial stability and relief from his family’s hardships. However, the consequences of his wishes reveal that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be achieved through the granting of magical wishes. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the unintended consequences of one’s desires.
