What is the falling action of “The Monkey’s Paw”?
The falling action of “The Monkey’s Paw,” a short story by W. W. Jacobs, is the final sequence of events that bring the story to a close. It follows the climax, where the characters have reached the peak of their conflict, and sets the stage for resolution or conclusion. In this case, the falling action is where the story’s dark and supernatural elements come to a head, leaving readers with a chilling and unforgettable ending.
In the falling action, the main characters, Mr. and Mrs. White, are haunted by the mysterious paw that they had previously ignored. The paw, which had granted them three wishes, has caused them nothing but misfortune. As the story progresses, the couple’s situation grows increasingly dire, and the third and final wish becomes a pivotal moment.
The third wish is granted to Mrs. White, who, in a moment of desperation, wishes for her husband’s life back. However, the wish backfires, as it is revealed that the paw’s magic is not as simple as it seems. The falling action unfolds as the supernatural consequences of the wish manifest, leading to a tragic and eerie conclusion.
The falling action of “The Monkey’s Paw” is characterized by several key elements:
1. The revelation of the paw’s true nature: As the story progresses, the true power and consequences of the paw become clearer. This revelation is crucial in understanding the gravity of the characters’ decisions and the unfolding events.
2. The escalation of supernatural events: The falling action is marked by a series of increasingly bizarre and disturbing events that are directly tied to the wishes granted by the paw. These events create a sense of dread and anticipation, as readers are left guessing about the outcome.
3. The tragic consequences of the third wish: The final wish, which ultimately leads to Mr. White’s death, is the turning point in the falling action. This moment is filled with emotional turmoil and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of seeking supernatural solutions to life’s problems.
4. The resolution of the story: The falling action concludes with the resolution of the story, where the characters’ fate is sealed. This resolution is both satisfying and unsettling, as it leaves readers with a sense of closure while also pondering the moral implications of the story.
In summary, the falling action of “The Monkey’s Paw” is a critical part of the story, where the supernatural elements come to a head and the characters face the tragic consequences of their actions. This sequence of events is what makes the story unforgettable and leaves a lasting impact on readers.
