mark twain's humorous turkey hunt
A yearly delight: re-sharing twain's wit
I'm sharing this piece again because it’s genuinely funny and clever! Mark Twain truly embodies the spirit of a witty and observant American writer and social critic. He's a genuine national treasure. This excerpt originally appeared in a 1906 issue of Harper’s Magazine and always brings a smile. It's a perfect, lighthearted distraction from the anxieties of modern life – especially with the recent arrival of The Complete Works of Mark Twain, all seven volumes, from the Library of America!
Twain's trademark humor
This piece showcases Twain’s signature dry wit and his playfully portrayed naivete, constantly outsmarted by animals. The depiction of Mama Turkey is particularly delightful. As someone familiar with turkeys on my own pasture, I can attest to their cunning and ability to evade hunters! The ladies prance, preen, and successfully elude would-be assassins daily.
The deceptive turkey: a hilarious encounter
The story recounts Twain's amusing experience hunting a turkey. He’s clearly flustered by Mama Turkey’s maneuvers, and it’s evident he doesn't truly want to harm her. The encounter is portrayed with a charming respect, highlighting Twain's playful approach to the hunt. He's completely outwitted, and the result is genuinely funny. It’s a delightful anecdote demonstrating his comedic timing and storytelling skills.
Character of mama turkey
Mama Turkey is presented as incredibly shrewd and capable. She consistently outwits Twain, displaying a cleverness that borders on mischievousness. Her actions aren’t malicious, but rather a playful defense against the hunter. This portrayal contributes to the humor, as Twain’s attempts to capture her are continuously foiled. It’s a testament to Twain's ability to imbue even animals with memorable personalities.
A lasting impression: sardines and beyond
The story’s conclusion reveals a lasting effect on Twain—he vows never to eat a sardine again! This seemingly absurd resolution adds another layer of humor to the narrative, emphasizing the absurdity of his experience and solidifying the turkey's victory. It’s a memorable detail that underscores the overall comedic tone of the piece and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Source and further reading
“Hunting the Deceitful Turkey” was published in Harper’s Monthly in December 1906 (pages 57-58). For those interested in exploring more of Twain’s work, The Library of America’s complete collection is an invaluable resource. This short story offers a wonderful glimpse into Twain’s comedic genius and his ability to find humor in everyday situations. It’s a perfect addition to any collection of American literature.