• CHAPTER 8 — Slouch Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 8 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" addresses the pervasive issue of slouch or general untidiness and lack of pride in one's appearance and surroundings in America, contrasting it significantly with the tidiness and pride observed in the people and places of Europe. The author passionately advocates for a cultural shift towards neatness and self-respect, suggesting that this change should begin in schools and extend to all public spaces and professions. Through anecdotes and observations, the author…
    • CHAPTER 7 — The Discontent of Talent Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 7, "The Discontent of Talent," of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the author explores the contrast between the complacency of the ordinary and the restless pursuit of improvement that characterizes the talented. The chapter opens with a critique of self-satisfied individuals who resist change and view their own customs and surroundings as beyond critique. This complacency is notably absent among the more gifted or imaginative, a group which includes well-traveled individuals. Such experiences of…
    • CHAPTER 6 — The Complacency of Mediocrity Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 6 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" titled "The Complacency of Mediocrity" discusses the perplexing satisfaction found among those of mediocre ability or small intellects, a contentment that seems inversely proportional to their accomplishments or talents. The author observes this phenomenon across various social interactions and compares it to the humility and self-doubt often found in individuals of true talent and achievement, those who have genuinely contributed to their fields. This chapter…
    • CHAPTER 5 — On Some Gilded Misalliances Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 5 of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the author reflects on the complex and often unfortunate outcomes of marriages between American women and foreign nobility, drawing from the words of an experienced American lady in Rome who remarked on the rarity of truly happy unions in such circumstances. The author, once naive and idealistic about these international marriages, has come to recognize their inherent challenges through years of observation and reality checks. The narrative begins with a…
    • CHAPTER 4 — The Outer and the Inner Woman Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 4, "The Outer and the Inner Woman," of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the author examines the increasing prevalence of shoplifting among educated and seemingly refined women, attributing it to societal values that prioritize ostentation and external appearances over genuine quality and comfort due to rapid, immature prosperity. The author criticizes the societal obsession with luxury and the visible signs of wealth, pointing out that this leads to a preference for public display of wealth over solid…
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    • CHAPTER 2 — The Moth and the Star Cover
      by LovelyMay "The Moth and the Star," Chapter 2 from "Worldly Ways and Byways," explores an intriguing paradox within American society—the widespread fascination among the general populace with the lives of the wealthy and fashionable, despite seemingly no direct connection or similar life experiences. The chapter delves into the puzzling interest ordinary Americans have in the elite's social activities, contrasting it starkly with expectations based on societal norms observed in countries with hereditary nobilities,…
    • CHAPTER 1 — Charm Cover
      by LovelyMay In "Worldly Ways and Byways," the first chapter titled "Charm" delves into the ethereal quality known as charm, which the author regards as the pinnacle of evolved sophistication and allure, especially in women. This allure, described as being powerful enough to sway the destinies of empires and capture hearts across generations, astonishingly is often found in women not remarkable for their beauty by conventional standards. Historical figures such as Cleopatra and Mary of Scotland, despite not being…
    • Chapter

      To the Reader

      To the Reader Cover
      by LovelyMay In "To the Reader," the second chapter of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the author reminisces about a bygone diplomatic practice known as the Pele Mele. This unconventional system, likely devised by an overwhelmed Master of Ceremonies, aimed to alleviate the incessant quarrels over precedence amongst courtiers and diplomats by nullifying rank at social gatherings. Under Pele Mele, individuals secured their positions not through status or entitlement but through wit or luck, leading to a mélange of confusion,…
    • 13 — 	Condemned to Torture and Death Cover
      by LovelyMay Following her men's capture of Tarzan, La, the High Priestess of Opar, decides against immediate execution, instead opting to torture and then sacrifice him to their deity, the Flaming God. Despite their previous confrontations, La's complex feelings towards Tarzan – a combination of resentment, admiration, and unrequited love – lead her to struggle with the decision to condemn him. La's priests prepare a sacrificial altar, echoing ancient rituals whose meanings have long been forgotten, underscoring…
    • ACT IV ‑Uncle Vanya Cover
      by LovelyMay In Act IV of "Uncle Vanya," Voitski's bedroom, doubling as his office, is detailed with both practical and personal items, signaling its use as a place of work and solitude. As the scene opens, we witness a quiet, anticipatory moment between Telegin and Marina, suggesting a change is afoot with the departure of the professor's family to Kharkoff in search of a different life. This departure sparks relief in Marina and Telegin, hinting at the discomfort and disruption caused by the family's presence. The…
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