The Monkey’s Paw

W. W. Jacobs

The Monkey’s Paw by W. W. Jacobs is a chilling short story that explores fate, desire, and the dangerous consequences of interfering with the natural order of life. Centered around a mysterious talisman said to grant three wishes, the story unfolds as an ordinary family discovers that every wish comes at a terrible price. Blending suspense, superstition, and psychological tension, this classic tale masterfully builds dread through atmosphere rather than action. Its quiet terror and moral depth have made it one of the most enduring stories in supernatural fiction.