The Stolen White Elephant

Book Review

«The Stolen White Elephant» is a satirical novella by Mark Twain that mocks bureaucracy and the incompetence of authorities. At the heart of the plot is the story of a white elephant, intended as a gift for the Queen of England, which goes missing in New York. Twain masterfully uses humor and irony to depict the absurdity and chaos arising from the system's inefficiency. Critics note that the author successfully creates a vivid and memorable image that serves as a metaphor for societal critique. Twain, as always, demonstrates his talent for crafting witty and insightful works that prompt readers to reflect on serious issues through the lens of comedy. The novella also highlights themes of cultural differences and misunderstanding, making it relevant even today.