Chapter XIV Summary

In this chapter the little prince meets the lamplighter. He is an archetypal adult, but instead of taking on the exaggerated qualities associated with success, this man is a simpleton. He has orders to light and extinguish a lamp and that is all he does. Since he began his job, the tiny planet he inhabits has increased the speed of its orbit such that the poor lamplighter must constantly either light or extinguish his lamp. It's a nonstop job and the lamplighter is exceedingly tired. While the little prince recognizes the absurdity of his situation, he also feels love for the lamplighter, who fulfils his orders without fail, no matter how tired he might be.

Chapter XIV Analysis

The lamplighter is a different kind of grown-up from those the prince has encountered thus far. He is aware his orders do not...