"The Widow and the Parrot", written by Virginia Woolf, is a tale that speaks of the power of wisdom as well as the origin of true rewards. Written for his two great-nephews, Julian and Quentin Bell, the story resonates with them in such a way that it changes the perspective of their livelihoods. "The Widow and the Parrot" is based on a true story, showing Woolf's true intentions in creating a light-hearted and "improving" story. story" with a moral (Mills 304). Julian Bell illustrated the story; however, Quentin Bell who later created an afterword explaining the true origins of the tale published it sixty years after its origin. Virginia Woolf, considered the One of the best modernist writers, vividly describes in her short stories that feminist writing can prevail despite her difficult family background and mental illness, in the early 19th century, as shown in "The Widow and the Parrot." Born January 25, 1882 in Kensington, England, the daughter of critic Leslie Stephen, Woolf was under constant pressure to make something of herself because "Woolf's parents were extremely connected both socially and artistically." Lazzari 300) Woolf made great strides to begin her budding writing career, including establishing the "Hyde Park Gate News", a newspaper that documented her family's many activities. It was her destiny to become “the daughter of learned men” as Woolf danced between literary expression and personal desolation in her works of writing, intriguing her community with her innovative style (Mills 300). Growing up at a time when the feminist movement was leading educational reforms, Woolf's writings reflected much of the culture and political movements around her (Brackett 22). Additionally, ...... middle of paper ...... "the widow and the parrot" would include the demonstration of the power of the widow, whom society considers deceased (Carter 308). The theme can be seen in Mrs. Gage's characterization as, "despite her poverty, she was devoted to animals and often fended for herself rather than deprive her dog of its bones" (Woolf 1), although a story as chipper as it is strange for Woolf given her mental state. , it is clear that the motive was his love for his great-nephews and the moral presented is of great importance At the time this short story was born, it was very little known until its rediscovery sixty years later, " The Widow and the ". Parrot", written by Virginia Woolf, is a tale that shows the true rewards that kindness will bring, in addition to the power of wisdom to those who seem helpless, and which still resonates in modern society..