Pigs is Pigs

"Pigs is Pigs" by Ellis Parker Butler is a funny story that pokes fun at how silly rules and paperwork can be, taking place in the early 1900s. It tells the story of Mike Flannery, a determined express agent, and Mr. Morehouse, a customer who just wants to ship his guinea pigs; their argument over whether guinea pigs are "pigs" leads to comical chaos and highlights how ridiculous bureaucracy can be. When Morehouse tries to pay a low rate to ship his animals, Flannery stands firm on the company's rule that guinea pigs are pigs, which means a higher price. The story then spirals out of control as Flannery's flawed number skills result in him having to deal with a huge number of guinea pigs which he must care for. The story ends with a funny mess of packing and sending away tons of guinea pigs, showing how Flannery sticks to his idea that "pigs is pigs" no matter what. In the end, the story is a lighthearted look at the difficulty of rigid systems and celebrates how people can adapt and be resourceful when faced with absurd situations.