"The Prodigies" is a short story by Willa Cather. It was first published in Home Monthly in July 1897.
Contents
Plot summary
The Mackenzies are invited to the Masseys' at four in the afternoon to hear their children, Hermann and Ad, sing. Later, Mr. Mackenzie overhears the children say they wish they could join other children and play with them instead of working. He chips in and tells them they will go to a dog show with his children the next day, instead of seeing an opera as planned. During their performance, the girl collapses. One month later, Mr. Mackenzie informs Mrs. Massey that the girl's voice has been worn out. Undaunted, she prods her son to become a very successful singer.
Characters
Allusions to other works
Literary significance and criticism
References
The Prodigies Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA