The Man Who Could Work Miracles (A Pantoum in Prose)
In this light-hearted story by H. G. Wells, a man known as a sceptic as far as miracles are concerned suddenly discovers he can make things happen just by thinking about them. After a few teething problems, such as sending a local police constable to Hades, he confides in his parish priest. Once convinced, the priest becomes so obsessed with using the miracle worker’s powers for good that he inadvertently encourages him to do something that brings about global catastrophe. Themes include the supernatural, power and responsibility, human frailty, the danger of interfering with nature, science vs. religion.
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This English folktale is about a boy who isn’t very bright and doesn’t like the idea of work. However, thanks to following the advice of his mother, he marries a rich girl and, one imagines, never has to work again. Possible morals? For children: Always do what your parents tell you and you’ll have a good life. For parents: Teach your children the value of hard work so they can take care of you in your old age. For the rich girl: Sometimes laughter is the best medicine. For the rich girl’s father: Be careful of what you wish for!
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