The First Man's Third Wish and Its Implications

The Monkey's Paw is a classic horror short story written by W.W. Jacobs. One of the most notable literary devices used throughout the text is foreshadowing. Foreshadowing is a technique in which an author hints at events or outcomes that will happen later in the story. In The Monkey's Paw, foreshadowing is used multiple times to build suspense and create a sense of impending doom. One instance of foreshadowing occurs when the first man's third wish is mentioned. This essay will explore how this specific wish serves as an example of foreshadowing, using evidence from the text to support this interpretation.

The first man's third wish is a crucial moment in the story, as it sets the stage for the tragic events that follow. When the monkey's paw is introduced to the White family, they are told that it grants three wishes to its owner. Mr. White, the protagonist, is initially skeptical about the paw's powers but eventually decides to make a wish. He wishes for two hundred pounds, which he believes will solve his financial troubles.

At first, it seems like Mr. White's wish has come true. The next day, the family receives news that their son, Herbert, has been killed in a tragic accident at work. As they mourn their loss, they are visited by a representative from Herbert's employer, who informs them that they will receive a sum of two hundred pounds as compensation. This is when the foreshadowing of the first man's third wish becomes evident.

The mention of the first man's third wish before Mr. White makes his own wish is a clever foreshadowing technique used by Jacobs. It hints at the potential consequences of making a wish with the monkey's paw. By introducing the idea of a third wish before Mr. White's wish is revealed, the author creates a sense of foreboding and unease in the reader's mind. The reader becomes aware that there may be unintended consequences or a dark twist to the wish.

This foreshadowing is further reinforced by the events that follow Mr. White's wish. The two hundred pounds that the family receives as compensation for Herbert's death can be seen as a twisted fulfillment of Mr. White's wish. While he did receive the desired sum of money, it came at the cost of his son's life. This tragic outcome emphasizes the danger of tampering with fate and serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of greed and the misuse of power.

In addition to the foreshadowing of the first man's third wish, there are other instances of foreshadowing throughout the story. For example, when the White family first receives the monkey's paw, Sergeant-Major Morris, who brings the paw to their attention, warns them about its power. He recounts the tale of the previous owner, who used his three wishes and suffered greatly as a result. This foreshadows the potential danger and tragedy that awaits the Whites if they choose to use the paw.

Furthermore, the description of the monkey's paw itself is another instance of foreshadowing. The paw is described as "mummified" and "shriveled," suggesting that it holds a dark and sinister power. This description creates a sense of unease and sets the stage for the supernatural events that unfold later in the story.

In conclusion, the mention of the first man's third wish in The Monkey's Paw is a prime example of foreshadowing. By hinting at the consequences of making a wish with the monkey's paw, W.W. Jacobs creates a sense of foreboding and builds suspense throughout the story. The tragic outcome of Mr. White's wish serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the misuse of power. Through the use of foreshadowing, Jacobs effectively engages the reader and leaves a lasting impact.