- Published on
Princess September
- Authors
- Name
- William Somerset Maugham
- @search?q=William Somerset Maugham
Summary of "Princess September"
"Princess September" is a charming story featured in the NCERT English Supplementary Reader. It unfolds in the royal setting of Siam, where the King and Queen have numerous daughters. To avoid confusion due to their many names, the King decides to name them after the months of the year in Siamese.
Plot Overview
The story begins with Princess September receiving a traditional gift of a parrot in a golden cage on her father's birthday, similar to her sisters. However, a twist of fate leads to the parrot's untimely death. In its place, a singing bird enters Princess September's life, bringing joy and music.
Key Themes
Freedom and Captivity: The contrast between the caged parrot and the free singing bird symbolizes the themes of freedom and captivity. Princess September's sisters advise her to cage the singing bird, highlighting the human tendency to restrict freedom.
Happiness and Jealousy: Princess September finds genuine happiness in the singing bird's company, in contrast to her sisters' jealousy. This juxtaposition explores the impact of happiness on relationships and the destructive nature of envy.
Characters
- Princess September: A kind-hearted protagonist who finds joy in the simplicity of the singing bird's company.
- The Singing Bird: Symbolizes freedom and the joy of living unrestrained.
- The Sisters: Serve as antagonists, showcasing jealousy and the desire to control others.
Moral and Interpretation
"Princess September" teaches valuable lessons about the importance of freedom and the beauty of finding happiness in simple, unbound things. It encourages readers to appreciate the free spirit and warns against the constraints of jealousy and control.