Farmer in the Dell [1919]

Ben Westerveld, a retired and well-to-do farmer from southern Illinois, struggles to adjust to his new life in Chicago with his overbearing wife, Bella. Having moved to the city to “take it easy,” Ben finds himself missing the farm life and feeling purposeless amidst the hustle and bustle of urban living. Despite Bella and their children adapting to city life, Ben yearns for the open fields and the satisfying work of farming. A chance encounter on South Water Street with Emma Byers, his one-time love interest who now successfully runs a commission business, rekindles a spark of life in Ben. Emma urges him to return to farming, telling him there’s no bigger or more important job in the world. Ben’s spirits are momentarily lifted by the thought of returning to farming, but he feels trapped by his current circumstances. However, everything changes with the sudden return of his son, Dike, from World War I. Dike’s stories about farming techniques in France reinvigorate Ben, showing him that his extensive farming knowledge and experience still have value. The chapter highlights the themes of longing for purpose, the clash between rural and urban life, and the timeless value of agricultural work.