What was the 3rd wish in the Monkey’s Paw? This intriguing question has been pondered by many readers since W.W. Jacobs’ classic short story was first published in 1902. The Monkey’s Paw is a tale of supernatural occurrences and the perils of wishing for more than one desires. The story revolves around three wishes granted by an enchanted paw, each leading to dire consequences. Let’s delve into the mystery of the third wish and its impact on the characters involved.
The story opens with the White family, consisting of Mr. White, his wife, Mrs. White, and their two children, Herbert and Ethel. They discover an old, dusty monkey’s paw in their late grandfather’s attic. The paw is said to possess magical powers, capable of granting three wishes to the one who finds it. Intrigued by the tale, Mr. White decides to test the paw’s authenticity by making a wish.
His first wish is for money, and the paw promptly grants it. However, the money brings with it a sense of unease and foreboding. The second wish is for the return of his lost dog, and once again, the paw complies. But as the family begins to enjoy the newfound prosperity, they are haunted by a mysterious man who keeps appearing at their doorstep, demanding to speak with Mr. White. The third wish is made, and the consequences are dire.
The third wish is for the man to leave them in peace. However, the paw’s magic is not as simple as it seems. The wish is granted, but at a great cost. The mysterious man, who turns out to be a soldier who had been killed in the war, is now trapped in the form of a ghost. His presence becomes increasingly more menacing, and the family is forced to confront the grim reality of their situation.
The third wish in the Monkey’s Paw serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of wishing for more than one desire. It highlights the idea that the universe has a way of evening things out, and sometimes, the price of our wishes is far greater than we ever imagined. The story leaves readers pondering the moral implications of their own desires and the potential consequences that may arise from granting them.
In conclusion, the third wish in the Monkey’s Paw is a haunting reminder of the perils of wishing for more than one desire. It serves as a cautionary tale, teaching us to be wary of the potential consequences that may arise from our wishes. W.W. Jacobs’ story has captivated readers for over a century, and the mystery of the third wish remains a topic of intrigue and discussion to this day.
