Story Summary
Discover Oscar Wilde’s The Remarkable Rocket, a satirical tale of a pompous firework whose extreme vanity and 'sensitivity' lead to a damp and unnoticed end.
The King’s son was getting married, and a grand fireworks display was prepared for the celebration. Among the pyrotechnics was a Rocket who was incredibly stuck-up. He believed he was the most important firework ever created, born of remarkable parents and destined for greatness. While the other fireworks—the Roman Candle, the Catherine Wheel, and the Bengal Light—talked of their duty to entertain, the Rocket spoke only of his own sensitive nature and superior station. To prove how deep his feelings were, he began to cry, soaking his gunpowder with tears. When the royal pyrotechnist arrived to light the show, all the fireworks soared beautifully into the sky except for the Rocket, who was too damp to ignite. The next morning, a workman threw him over a wall into a ditch. Even in the mud, the Rocket remained delusional, insulting a Frog, a Dragonfly, and a Duck by claiming they were beneath his notice. Finally, two boys found him and put him on their fire. He eventually dried out and exploded, but it was midday and no one saw him. 'I knew I should create a great sensation,' the Rocket gasped as he fizzled out, never realizing that his grand moment had gone entirely unnoticed.
The Moral
Arrogance and self-importance often lead to a lonely, unobserved failure, as true greatness requires more than just high self-opinion.
“I am so clever that sometimes I don't understand a single word of what I am saying.”
Fun Fact
Oscar Wilde likely wrote this story as a parody of his own public persona and the 'Aesthetic movement,' which valued style and sensitivity over practical utility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Remarkable Rocket?
The story teaches that vanity and an inflated ego can blind a person to reality. The Rocket's obsession with his own importance prevents him from fulfilling his purpose and leaves him isolated and unappreciated.
Why didn't the Remarkable Rocket go off during the wedding?
The Rocket was so convinced of his own sensitivity that he began to weep to show off his deep emotions. His tears soaked his gunpowder, making it impossible for the pyrotechnist to light him during the actual celebration.
What does the Rocket symbolize in the story?
The Rocket is a satirical symbol of narcissism and the Victorian upper class's self-importance. He represents people who believe the world revolves around them, even when they are failing to contribute anything of value.
Who wrote The Remarkable Rocket?
The story was written by the famous Irish playwright and poet Oscar Wilde. it was published in 1888 as part of his collection of children's stories titled 'The Happy Prince and Other Tales.'
How does the story of the Remarkable Rocket end?
The story ends with the Rocket being tossed into a ditch and eventually being burned by two boys for heat. He finally explodes in the middle of the day when no one is watching, dying with the delusion that he was a grand success.
What is the tone of Oscar Wilde's The Remarkable Rocket?
The tone is highly satirical and ironic. Wilde uses sharp wit to mock the Rocket's pompous dialogue and his desperate attempts to frame his failures as marks of distinction and genius.