Fathers and Sons Lesson Summary Notes and Explanation in English Class 10th

Introduction:

‘Fathers and Sons’ is a humorous short story. It details on two fathers and their views of their son and vice versa. 

About the Author:

Information about the author is unknown.

Theme:

The theme of this short story is the relationship shared between fathers and sons. The first thinks the other to be the fool which the latter finds the former absurd, as can be seen through the story. 

Summary:

The Sons:

Peter Everton and Harry Glossop were fast friends who were catching up with each other for their wives were visiting London. Immediately, what they talk about is how their sons were foolish. They take turns to call their respective sons the choicest of names. In a manner of proving whose son is the most foolish, they decide send their sons each on an errand.

The Task:

Peter sends his son George with some money to buy the big car that George wants (which he himself knows he can’t drive) from the flower shop. George promptly set off, proving Harry right for he thought he could buy a car for twelve pounds in a flower shop. Harry, in turn, asserts that his son is the same. He calls Vernon and send him to Rope street, the place where he worked, stating that his mother had called to state that their house was on fire. Vernon was to go to his work place to inform him about the same, which he does, proving Harry right as well.

The Fathers:

As they make their way, the boys have less than pleasant thoughts about their fathers too, declaring that they can’t think. George complains about the stupidity of his father for not giving him more money to pay for a taxi for he had to walk to the flower shop and back after buying the car. Vernon, in turns, states the same for his father could have simply telephoned himself and delivered the news in his office. The story ends with a repetition of their phrase “Men can’t think.”

Conclusion:

This is an amusing story. While the fathers were indeed right in thinking their sons to be fools, the story brings out how, for generations altogether, fathers and sons alike thought less of one another, thinking the other to be a fool.