Essay Review - Rocking Horse Winner

Rocking Horse Winner

DH Lawrence

published 1926

I just recently finished Finders Keepers, by Stephen King and this essay was mentioned several times.

It is about a young boy, Paul, who is acutely aware of his parents continuous need for more money, and the reason his mother gives for their lack of financial stability is bad luck. We as the reader are aware it is not "bad luck" but a luxurious lifestyle that is well beyond their financial means, for the sake of appearances that drains their bank. The boy begins to have premonitions of who will be the winner in horse races, involving first his gardener Basset and later his Uncle to bet for him and with him, he keeps this talent a secret from his parents. No matter how much money he wins (that is given to his parents via his uncle) it is never enough. in fact it has the reverse affect from his intention; the more money his parents receive, the more they spend foolishly and extravagantly.
And while the parents do not realize it the money comes at a cost, it is physically and mentally hard on Paul divining the winners and he eventually dies from his efforts. To which we the readers are left wondering if they will mourn the loss of their son or the loss of profit.

Greedy to the detriment of yourself