Droozle

"Droozle" by Frank Banta is a whimsical novella written during the early 1960s. This light-hearted fantasy tells the story of Jean Lanni, a struggling artist, and his unusual companion, a twelve-inch pen-shaped snake named Droozle. The narrative explores themes of creativity, partnership, and the challenges faced by artists and authors alike in a comedic setting. The plot revolves around Jean's relationship with Droozle, who has developed a talent for writing but has recently begun producing lengthy literary works that financially strain Jean's aspirations. While initially enjoying Droozle's success with bestsellers about snakes, Jean faces a crisis when the snake decides to write ambitious classics instead. As Jean grapples with the prospect of losing his financial stability and potentially his relationship with his girlfriend, Judy Stokes, he comes to realize the importance of creative collaboration and understanding between him and Droozle. The story culminates in a humorous negotiation between them, leading to an unexpected resolution and a fresh perspective on artistic expression.