• CHAPTER 39 — A Race of Slaves Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 39 of "Worldly Ways and Byways," entitled "A Race of Slaves," the author laments the paradox of Americans, who, despite their global dominance and innovations abroad, submit themselves to petty tyrannies at home. The narrative begins with a critique of American expansionism and innovation in Europe, highlighting achievements such as introducing trolleys and electrifying the Roman catacombs. However, the author quickly shifts focus to the domestic sphere, where Americans, in contrast to their…
    • CHAPTER 37 — The Newport of the Past Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
    • CHAPTER 36 — American Society in Italy Cover
      by LovelyMay 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,…
    • CHAPTER 35 — Living on your Friends Cover
      by LovelyMay In "Worldly Ways and Byways," Chapter 35, titled "Living on Your Friends," delves into the art of living luxuriously without owning significant wealth. Drawing inspiration from Thackeray's "Vanity Fair," the chapter explores the societal evolution from the Victorian era, illustrating how certain individuals have mastered the art of enjoying the perks of a multi-millionaire lifestyle through the hospitality of affluent friends. This lifestyle not only benefits the individual but often provides satisfaction…
    • CHAPTER 34 — A Question and an Answer Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
    • CHAPTER 33 — The Introducer Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
    • CHAPTER 32 — An Ideal Hostess Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
    • CHAPTER 31 — Men’s Manners Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 31 of "Worldly Ways and Byways" titled "Men's Manners" delves into the evolution of men’s manners over different generations, as observed by the author, who feels a disconnect from the emerging etiquettes of younger men. The chapter begins with a nostalgic reflection on how manners have shifted from the author's youth to the present, emphasizing a perceived improvement in young men's politeness and respectfulness. The author reminisces about three distinct periods in men's manners, beginning with…
    • CHAPTER 30 — The Faubourg of St. Germain Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
    • CHAPTER 29 — Husks Cover
      by LovelyMay 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…
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