26 Results in the "Society" category
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Amidst the summer allure of Newport, with its vibrant yachting and festive dancing, few of its visitors ponder over the historical depth beneath their feet, largely overlooking the tales that predate even the most famed explorers of the Atlantic. This chapter delves into the rich tapestry of Newport's past, invoking the spirit of adventurous Norsemen speculated to have landed on these rocky shores well before Columbus's voyages. This notion, romanticized by Longfellow’s poetic narratives, sets the stage…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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The chapter "American Society in Italy" from "Worldly Ways and Byways" delves into the disillusionment surrounding the concept of an 'American Society' within European locales such as Rome, Florence, and Paris. It starts by debunking the myth of a cohesive American society in these cities, illustrating it as a mirage for those seeking an exotic social enclave abroad. The author reminisces about a bygone era, around forty to fifty years prior, when a quaint community of American artists and intellectuals,…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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In "A Question and an Answer," the author responds to an intriguing query from an admirer about the necessities for social success. The admirer's note stands out among the author's usual stack of morning correspondence, sparking his determination to address this complex question. He acknowledges the perplexing nature of social ascendancy—how certain individuals with seemingly lesser qualities triumph in society's eyes, while others, ostensibly more deserving, lag behind. The author delves into…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
CHAPTER 33 – The Introducer
Chapter 33 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" humorously critiques the social ritual of unnecessary introductions, highlighting how this well-intentioned but often misguided practice can lead to discomfort and awkwardness. The narrator delves into the peculiar behavior of the "Introducer," a character type overly enthusiastic about connecting people, regardless of their interest or willingness to meet new acquaintances. This individual is driven by a naïve belief in his mission to foster connections between…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
CHAPTER 32 – An Ideal Hostess
Chapter 32 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" opens with the narrator reflecting on the dichotomy of lifestyles between different segments of society, a theme exemplified through a luncheon experience at the home of a retired stage artiste in Paris. The artiste, previously celebrated for her charm, beauty, and singing talents, invites the narrator to join her and other guests for a gathering that promises nostalgia and companionship. The setting of the luncheon is lavishly described, showcasing the hostess's…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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In Chapter 30 entitled "The Faubourg of St. Germain" from "Worldly Ways and Byways," the narrator describes the impenetrable social environment of the aristocrats in the Faubourg of St. Germain, Paris, likening their exclusivity to that of the Chinese aristocracy who refer to outsiders as "barbarians." Despite efforts over decades, including those by Napoleon III and his Empress Eugenie, who sought to integrate into this closed society by reshaping Parisian geography and social landscapes, the old…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
CHAPTER 29 – Husks
In Chapter 29 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" entitled "Husks," the narrative highlights the consequences of ignorance and wastefulness through the lens of culinary practices, and how these traits have permeated Anglo-Saxon societies, particularly in America. The story begins with a historical account of Protestant weavers expelled from France by Louis XIV, who settled in Spitalfields, England. These immigrants, faced with destitution, creatively utilized the discarded cattle tails from English…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
CHAPTER 26 – The Climber
In Chapter 26 of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the narrative delves into the antics and aspirations of social climbers during the late 19th century, a period marked by pervasive ambition to ascend the social ladder, an ambition viewed with a blend of amusement and critique. The chapter opens by contrasting genuine ambition, seen in individuals striving to improve their lot for noble reasons, with the frivolous endeavor of social climbing for mere exclusivity. The author portrays social climbers as individuals…-
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Chapter
CHAPTER 24 – Changing Paris
Paris is undergoing significant transformations in anticipation of the 1900 Exhibition, both in its physical landscape and social dynamics. The Palais de l'Industrie, a symbol of past exhibitions and social festivities, is being dismantled to make way for a new avenue that will extend from the Champs Elysées to the Esplanade des Invalides, highlighting Napoleon's tomb. This change reflects the city's continuous evolution and the ironic impermanence of what was once deemed everlasting. The narrative…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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In Chapter 21 of "Worldly Ways and Byways," titled "Like Master Like Man," the author delves into the common grievances and complexities inherent in the relationship between masters and their servants. The chapter begins with an ironic observation on the frequent complaints by housewives about the unsatisfactory nature of their servants, highlighting the one-sidedness and lack of awareness in these grievances. It reflects on how the situation has evolved from past times when servants were considered almost…-
98.5 K • Ongoing
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