Похищение белого слона

The satire feels sharp but playful—did Twain intend to critique societal norms through humor or was it more about entertainment?

The clever twists and commentary on human nature seem timeless. I wonder if Twain's humor was ahead of its time or if it still hits home now.

The story's charm partly comes from its vivid depiction of a small town and its quirky inhabitants. Was this based on real places or entirely fictional?