“The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse” – by William Saroyan

The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse – Notes

About the Author

• William Saroyan (1908–1981) – an Armenian-American writer known for short stories, plays, and novels.
• His works often reflect human emotions, cultural identity, and family bonds.
• He wrote with simplicity, warmth, and humour.

Summary of the Story

• The narrator, Aram, a 9-year-old boy, belongs to the Garoghlanian family, an Armenian tribe known for honesty and poverty.
• His cousin Mourad (13 years old), full of energy and slightly eccentric, wakes him up one morning and shows him a beautiful white horse.
• Aram is astonished because their family could never afford such a horse.
• Mourad confesses that he has “borrowed” (actually stolen) the horse from a farmer named John Byro.
• Despite knowing it was wrong, Aram justifies Mourad’s act by saying that stealing money is wrong, but “borrowing a horse for joy” may not be so bad.
• The boys ride the horse for fun every morning, keeping it hidden in a barn.
• Mourad has a special ability to tame animals; even wild creatures trust him.
• After a few weeks, they meet John Byro, who recognises his horse but does not accuse them directly because the Garoghlanian family was famous for honesty.
• This silent trust and respect touch Mourad and Aram deeply.
• They secretly return the horse to Byro’s barn.

Themes

1. Honesty vs. Temptation
   • The Garoghlanian tribe is known for honesty, yet Mourad steals a horse.
   • The conflict between moral values and desires is central.
2. Innocence of Childhood
   • Aram and Mourad’s way of justifying their act reflects childish logic.
   • Their love for adventure overrides the idea of right and wrong.
3. Family Reputation and Identity
   • The tribe’s honour is more important than wealth.
   • Even John Byro trusts their honesty despite clear evidence.
4. Compassion for Animals
   • Mourad’s skill in handling horses, birds, and dogs shows harmony between humans and animals.
5. Redemption
   • The boys realise their mistake and return the horse without being forced—showing inner conscience at work.

Character Sketches

Aram (Narrator)

• Innocent, imaginative, and reflective.
• Struggles between family values and his desire to ride the horse.
• Represents childhood innocence and moral learning.

Mourad

• Adventurous, passionate, considered a little “crazy” like their uncle Khosrove.
• Loves animals and can communicate with them.
• Symbol of youthful spirit, but guided by conscience eventually.

John Byro

• Honest farmer, practical yet respectful.
• Chooses trust over accusation, teaching the boys a silent lesson in integrity.

Important Symbolism

• The White Horse:
  • Beauty, freedom, and temptation.
  • Symbolises desire and the test of values.
• Garoghlanian Tribe:
  • Represents moral strength and cultural pride despite poverty.
• John Byro’s Trust:
  • Silent power of honour and integrity.

Style of Writing

• First-person narrative (Aram).
• Blends humour, innocence, and moral teaching.
• Simple storytelling that appeals to both children and adults.

Value Points for Exams

• The story is about the conflict between desires and honesty.
• It highlights childhood innocence and the importance of family reputation.
• Mourad’s love for animals adds depth to his character.
• Silent trust of John Byro plays a powerful role in changing the boys.