Tobermory (book)

Introduction

Tobermory is a satirical short story written by the renowned Scottish writer, Hector Hugh Munro, under his pen name Saki. It is a witty commentary on the absurdities of human behavior and the follies of society.

Plot

The story takes place in an English country house where a group of distinguished guests are gathered for a dinner party. One of the guests, Cornelius Appin, claims to have discovered the secret of teaching animals to speak. The guests are skeptical, but Appin insists he has trained his cat, Tobermory, to speak.

To prove his point, Appin calls in Tobermory, who starts to speak English. The guests are shocked and amazed, but Tobermory’s remarks soon turn out to be vulgar and insulting. He exposes the guests’ secrets and flaws, much to their discomfort.

The story ends with Tobermory running away, and the guests relieved to be free from his verbal attacks.

Analysis

Tobermory is a clever satire on the pretensions and hypocrisy of high society. Munro uses Tobermory’s ability to speak to reveal the guests’ true character, showing that beneath their refined appearance lies a dark side.

The story also explores the age-old question of whether animals can be taught to speak. Munro mocks the idea that human beings are superior to animals by creating a cat that can speak English better than most people.

Legacy

Tobermory remains one of Saki’s most popular stories and has been adapted into various media, including stage productions and films.

It is a timeless satire that still resonates with modern audiences. Its witty commentary on human behavior and society’s follies make it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good laugh. So grab a copy of Tobermory, and prepare to be entertained!