Kipling the Trickster: Knowingness, Practical Jokes and the Use of Superior Knowledge in Kipling's Short Stories

In this thought-provoking exploration, John Coates dives into the rich tapestry of Rudyard Kipling's short stories, examining how his characters wield knowledge like a tool for trickery and deception. Coates reveals how these figures master the art of wit and practical jokes, often using their superior knowledge to navigate complex social interactions and outsmart one another.

Through engaging analysis, the book uncovers the deeper themes of cunning and intelligence found within Kipling's works. Readers are invited to reflect on the humor and human folly that drives these narratives, making them not only entertaining but also profoundly insightful. Coates brings a warm and accessible style to literary criticism, inviting both fans of Kipling and newcomers to appreciate the playful nuances in his storytelling.