• Chapter

      Chapters 4–5

      Chapters 4–5 Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 4: Christopher’s House August first learns that he might attend a real school when he is playing at Christopher’s house. He overhears his mom mentioning it to Christopher’s mom and demands to know what she means. She said she thinks August is ready to go to school with other kids. August disagrees, and his dad backs him up. August climbs into his dad’s lap and whines that he wants to stick with homeschooling. He knows he is acting like a baby, but he cannot help it. Chapter 5:…
    • Chapter

      Chapters 6–7

      Chapters 6–7 Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 6: Paging Mr. Tushman When he goes with his mom to meet Mr. Tushman, August is a little giggly at first because he keeps thinking of all the butt jokes he and his family made. He kind of expects the principal to have a big rear end, but Mr. Tushman turns out to be a skinny, normal-looking old guy. When Mr. Tushman introduces himself, August looks at the ground to hide his face. The principal kneels down so August has to look at him, and they talk about the subjects August likes to study.…
    • ACT I ‑Uncle Vanya Cover
      by LovelyMay In Act I of "Uncle Vanya," the scene is set at the country estate of the Serebrakoff family, depicted through a languid afternoon on the terrace showcasing a mix of ennui and subtle discontent among the characters. Marina, a nurturing old nurse, and Astrov, a physician weary of his overburdened professional life, engage in a dialogue revealing Astrov's despondence over the monotony of existence and the growing emptiness he feels despite his professional dedication. The arrival of Voitski (Vanya) introduces…
    • ACT II ‑Uncle Vanya Cover
      by LovelyMay Act II of "Uncle Vanya" unfolds in the dining room of Serebrakoff's house at night, with Serebrakoff and Helena half asleep. The scene primarily captures a tense and introspective dialogue between the characters, revealing Serebrakoff's deep dissatisfaction with aging and his fear of being a burden. Helena, although trying to offer comfort, eventually distances herself as Serebrakoff expresses his self-loathing and fear of death. This conversation lays bare the emotional and generational gap between the…
    • 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…
    • Recommendation

      Worldly Ways and Byways

      Worldly Ways and Byways Thumbnail
      by Eliot Gregory — "Worldly ways and byways" refers to the diverse and intricate paths of human behavior, culture, and experience as they navigate life’s complexities.
    • 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…
    • 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,…
    • 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…
      Society • view
    • 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…
    Note