The Open and only Houdini
“The Open and Only Houdini” by Robert Lado is a short story that revolves around a young boy’s fascination with the famous magician, Harry Houdini. The story is set in a small town, and the protagonist is a curious and imaginative child who is captivated by the world of magic and illusions.
Summary:
The story begins with the young narrator describing his obsession with magic and his idolization of Harry Houdini, the renowned escape artist and magician. The boy spends his days reading books about Houdini’s incredible feats and dreams of becoming a magician himself.
One day, the boy hears exciting news that Houdini is coming to town to perform his magic show. The entire town is abuzz with anticipation, and the boy can hardly contain his excitement. He imagines himself meeting Houdini and becoming his apprentice, learning the secrets behind the magician’s incredible escapes.
As the day of Houdini’s performance approaches, the boy becomes increasingly anxious. He plans to attend the show and hopes to catch a glimpse of his hero up close. However, when the day finally arrives, he faces disappointment as he is unable to secure a ticket to the sold-out event.
Desperate to see Houdini, the boy devises a plan. He decides to sneak into the theater, believing that once he is inside, he will have the chance to meet his idol. With determination, he manages to enter the theater unnoticed and watches Houdini’s performance in awe.
During the show, Houdini performs his famous water tank escape, leaving the audience spellbound. The boy is mesmerized by the magician’s skills and audacity. However, as Houdini emerges triumphant from the tank, the boy is shocked to see his hero’s expression change. Houdini looks tired and frail, and the boy realizes that his idol is not invincible.
After the performance, the boy manages to meet Houdini briefly backstage. He is disappointed to see that Houdini is not interested in taking on an apprentice or imparting any secrets. Instead, Houdini gives the boy a few words of encouragement and moves on.
The story ends with the boy’s realization that Houdini’s magic lies not only in his incredible escapes but also in his ability to inspire others. The boy leaves the theater with a newfound determination to pursue his own dreams, understanding that real magic comes from within.
“The Open and Only Houdini” explores themes of idolization, determination, and the realization that heroes, too, have their vulnerabilities. It portrays the transformative power of inspiration and the magic of pursuing one’s dreams.
Additional Question and Answer
1. Who is the author of “The Open and Only Houdini”?
The author of “The Open and Only Houdini” is Robert Lado.
2. What is the story’s protagonist fascinated by?
The protagonist of the story is fascinated by magic and Harry Houdini.
3. Where is the story set?
The story is set in a small town.
4. What does the protagonist dream of becoming?
The protagonist dreams of becoming a magician like Harry Houdini.
5. What exciting news does the protagonist hear about Houdini?
The protagonist hears that Harry Houdini is coming to town to perform a magic show.
6. Why is the town buzzing with anticipation?
The town is buzzing with anticipation because of Houdini’s upcoming performance.
7. What does the protagonist plan to do when he hears about Houdini’s show?
The protagonist plans to attend the show and hopes to meet Houdini.
8. What disappoints the protagonist on the day of the show?
The protagonist is disappointed because he cannot secure a ticket to the sold-out show.
9. What does the protagonist decide to do to see Houdini’s performance?
The protagonist decides to sneak into the theater to watch Houdini’s performance.
10. What famous escape does Houdini perform during the show?
Houdini performs his famous water tank escape during the show.
11. How does the protagonist feel when he sees Houdini’s performance?
The protagonist is mesmerized and in awe of Houdini’s skills during the performance.
12. What surprises the protagonist about Houdini after the show?
The protagonist is surprised to see that Houdini looks tired and frail after the show.
13. What does the protagonist hope to learn from Houdini?
The protagonist hopes to become Houdini’s apprentice and learn the secrets of magic.
14. What is Houdini’s response when the protagonist meets him backstage?
Houdini is not interested in taking on an apprentice and offers words of encouragement to the protagonist.
15. What realization does the protagonist have about Houdini’s magic?
The protagonist realizes that Houdini’s magic is not just about his incredible escapes but also about inspiring others.
16. What themes are explored in “The Open and Only Houdini”?
Themes explored in the story include idolization, determination, vulnerability of heroes, inspiration, and pursuing one’s dreams.
17. What does the story teach about the transformative power of inspiration?
The story teaches that inspiration can transform individuals and motivate them to pursue their dreams.
18. Where does the protagonist find the real magic in the story?
The protagonist finds the real magic within himself, realizing that it comes from pursuing his dreams and passions.
19. What role does determination play in the story?
Determination is a key theme as the protagonist’s determination to see Houdini’s performance leads to unexpected discoveries.
20. What does the story suggest about the nature of heroes?
The story suggests that heroes, like Houdini, may have their vulnerabilities and challenges but can still inspire and motivate others.
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