CHAPTER 20 – “The Treadmill”

In “The Treadmill,” a chapter that artfully mingles humor with pathos, the author shares a candid letter from a woman overwhelmed by her societal duties. This woman’s dilemma is a testament to the frantic pace set by social expectations—her schedule is an exhausting marathon of sports, luncheons, classes, charity meetings, and endless social functions, leaving her no time for serious endeavors or leisure reading. The author extends this example to highlight a broader cultural phenomenon, where the quest for leisure and self-improvement is often thwarted by relentless social commitments.

The narrative also weaves in the story of a painter commissioned to paint a notable beauty, illustrating the frustrating cycle of delays and deferrals caused by the subject’s packed social calendar. This example underscores the shared struggle of individuals caught in the relentless flow of societal expectations, where personal and artistic pursuits are sidelined for the sake of social appearances.

The author then explores the root of this societal issue: an inability to refuse invitations or decline participation in customary social routines. He observes a gradual departure from certain traditions, such as New Year’s calls and afternoon teas, particularly among men who prioritize leisure or more meaningful engagements over perfunctory social rituals. This evolution suggests a shifting perspective on the value of time and the importance of authentic connections over superficial social exchanges.

The chapter concludes by advocating for a reconsideration of social customs, encouraging individuals, especially women, to assert their agency in choosing how they engage with the world around them. It suggests adopting more efficient methods of maintaining social connections, like the diplomatic custom of sending cards, to reclaim time for personal growth and genuine interactions. Through this insightful exploration, “The Treadmill” becomes a metaphor for the cyclical and often fruitless pursuit of social acceptance, urging a reevaluation of priorities in favor of a more fulfilling and autonomous life.