CHAPTER 32 – An Ideal Hostess

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 tastefully decorated apartment on the Boulevard near Rue Royale, with views of the bustling city life and the Madeleine. The narrator emphasizes the blend of artistic elegance and personal touches throughout the residence, highlighting the hostess’s accomplished past and her continued cultivation of beauty and culture in her retirement.

As the guests assemble, the narrative shifts focus to the luncheon itself, a testament to the ideal of quality over quantity in social gatherings. The menu is simple yet exquisite, featuring hors d’oeuvres, a singularly memorable Chicken A L’Espagnole, and a selection of desserts and beverages that favor purity and refinement over lavishness. This choice reflects the hostess’s philosophy and offers a critique of the typical extravagance associated with social dining, especially in contrast to American customs.

The author uses the luncheon to critique societal norms around entertainment and hospitality, drawing distinctions between genuine companionship and the superficiality of social expectations. The hostess’s approach to engaging individually with each guest, ensuring a personal touch and making everyone feel valued, is positioned as the epitome of class and considerateness, contrasting sharply with impersonal or ostentatious gatherings common in other social milieus, notably within New York’s high society.

Overall, this chapter serves as both a nostalgic recounting of a pleasant social experience and a deeper commentary on the values of simplicity, genuine interaction, and personal connection in hosting and socializing. Through vivid descriptions, personal reflections, and social critiques, the narrator conveys the essence of an ideal hostess and the timeless appeal of understated elegance and warmth in hospitality.