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    136 Results with the "Philosophical" genre


    • CHAPTER 10 – CALVE at Cabrieres Cover
      by LovelyMay Upon visiting Madame Calve at her picturesque home in Cabrieres during a "cure" in the Cevennes Mountains, the narrator recounts the transformation of the once sensuous Carmen into a figure of serenity. Calve, delighted to return to her roots, has devoted her home and resources to the convalescence of Parisian hospital girls, offering them fresh air, simple food, and the healing powers of sunlight, a remedy that once saved her own life. The arrival at Calve’s chateau brings the narrator into a collective…
    • CHAPTER 9 – “Climbers” in England Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 9 of "The Ways of Men" delves into the peculiar social dynamics of English society vis-à-vis American adventurers and the titled English class, painting a vivid portrait of the aspirations, misconceptions, and cultural clashes that transpire when Americans attempt to integrate into the elite circles of England. The term "Little Englander" encapsulates the insular attitude of English society towards foreigners, including Americans, highlighting a sense of superiority and exclusivity based on one's…
    • CHAPTER 8 – Idling in Mid-Ocean Cover
      by LovelyMay In "Idling in Mid-Ocean," the author explores the tranquil and transformative experience of a transatlantic voyage, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the ship moves through the vast, jade-colored ocean, the author finds themselves relishing in the sheer novelty and peacefulness of their surroundings, where the typical concerns of life on land seem distant and irrelevant. This chapter paints a picture of serene detachment and introspection, underscored by the leisurely pace of life aboard…
    • CHAPTER 7 – Worldly Color-Blindness Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 7 of "The Ways of Men," entitled "Worldly Color-Blindness," draws a parallel between the literal inability to discern colors and tones and a metaphorical lack of discernment in social settings. The author presents a critical view of those who, despite good intentions, fail to understand the subtleties of social gatherings, resulting in uncomfortable and unenjoyable events. The text opens with an analogy to physical color-blindness and tone-deafness, mentioning individuals who, despite these…
    • CHAPTER 6 – Modern Architecture Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 6 of "The Ways of Men," titled "Modern Architecture," the narrative opens with a foreign tourist's hypothetical first encounter with New York's skyline, described as both chaotic and enchantingly wild at twilight yet dishearteningly graceless by daylight. This dichotomy underscores the broader critique of the city's contemporary architectural ethos, contrasting sharply with the classical beauty and proportionality revered by past critics and architects. The author employs vivid analogies,…
    • CHAPTER 5 – Parnassus Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 5 titled "Parnassus" of "The Ways of Men," the narrator recounts an enlightening encounter with Sainte-Beuve, a paramount writer and critic of the century, in his Paris home on rue Montparnasse. This memorable visit captured through youthful eyes eventually matures into a cherished memory, reinforced by the narrator’s growing admiration for Sainte-Beuve’s work. The narrative weaves through the years, tracing the narrator's return to Paris, the transformations of the city, and his reverence…
    • CHAPTER 4 – Machine-made Men Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 4 of "The Ways of Men," entitled "Machine-made Men," the narrator humorously laments the overcomplication of modern life due to an obsession with patents and inventions. The narrative begins with the narrator's anticipation being dashed upon opening what appeared to be a personal letter, only to discover it was an advertisement for patent suspenders and paper collars. This disappointment leads to a broader critique of how society is rapidly becoming a "paradise of the cheap and nasty," where…
    • CHAPTER 3 – Cyrano, Rostand, Coquelin Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 3 of "The Ways of Men," the narrative delves into the significance of Edmond Rostand's play, "Cyrano de Bergerac," painting a vivid picture of the drama's impact when translated into English. Despite a weak translation, the original's charm—its humor, emotion, and satirical sharpness—shines through, much like good wine unaffected by the quality of its container. Richard Mansfield's dedication to presenting the play in its unaltered form, adhering closely to Rostand's vision and the play's…
    • CHAPTER 2 – Domestic Despots Cover
      by LovelyMay In Chapter 2 titled "Domestic Despots" of "The Ways of Men," the author delves into the phenomenon of household pets, particularly dogs, ruling over their human owners with an iron paw, depicting them as tyrants in the comfort of what appear to be happy homes. These dogs, regardless of their breed or size, become the center of their owners’ lives, often to the detriment of the owners' freedoms and preferences. The narrative critically examines the unquestioned allegiance and resources humans provide to…
    • CHAPTER 1 – “UNCLE SAM” Cover
      by LovelyMay At the dawn of the 19th century, a governor with a love for classical names gave pompous titles to many American towns. Cities like Utica, Syracuse, and Ithaca, once intended to evoke grandeur, now call to mind small, modern places filled with trolley cars and churches. However, the governor's decision to name a city Troy and a nearby hill Mount Ida unknowingly set the stage for a significant legacy. A young man named Samuel Wilson, living near this hill, would soon become synonymous with the proud nation…
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