Short Fiction · Chapter
Hostages to Momus explained
A group of men, including the narrator, Billy Keogh, and others, engage in a series of humorous and deceptive schemes, culminating in a practical joke involving a fake hush-money payment to an alderman, highlighting themes of deception and
What happens
A group of men, including the narrator, Billy Keogh, and others, engage in a series of humorous and deceptive schemes, culminating in a practical joke involving a fake hush-money payment to an alderman, highlighting themes of deception and social satire.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
The entire plot revolves around deceptive schemes and a fake hush-money payment, illustrating how appearances are manipulated.
Humor and Irony
The practical jokes and the ironic twist of the alderman being fooled highlight the story's comedic and ironic tone.
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator participates in the schemes and recounts the events.
- Billy Keogh
A key figure in orchestrating the practical jokes and schemes.
- Andy Donovan
Involved in the group's activities and the hush-money joke.
- The Captain
Participates in the group's discussions and schemes.
- Johnny Atwood
Part of the group involved in the practical joke on the alderman.
Key passages
“We were all in the back room of the Mansion House, and the talk had turned to the subject of practical jokes.”
The group gathered in the Mansion House's back room, discussing practical jokes.
Sets the scene for the chapter's focus on humorous deception.
“I'll bet you a hundred dollars that I can make Alderman Hinkle pay me fifty dollars for the privilege of being let off from paying a thousand.”
Keogh wagers he can trick Alderman Hinkle into paying him to avoid a larger payment.
Highlights the central scheme of the chapter.