Let Every Man Mind His Own Business by Harriet Beecher Stowe (1839): A Review
Author: Harriet Beecher Stowe
Publication Year: 1839
Pages: —
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Temperance fiction
Source: Ebook
First off, I must say I had no clue we had a genre called “Temperance Fiction,” which promotes “total abstinence from alcoholic beverages.” I would have probably referred to it as didactic fiction, but hey, let's roll with it!
Now, onto the story itself. If you’ve been following my reviews, you know I’m not exactly a fan of allegories or those heavy-handed tales that practically shout “Don’t!” or “Do!” at the reader. Yet, I find myself with a curious ambivalence toward this particular narrative, which offers a valuable moral about why “Every Man Should Mind His Own Business” is the wrong takeaway—100% wrong!
The plot revolves around two star-crossed lovers, Edward and Augusta. Their cousin, playing the role of Mr. Temperance, tries to get them to sign a temperance pledge. But Edward, like many cocky young people, refuses, thinking he is invincible. Spoiler alert: they are not invincible!
Much like every rom-com, they get married and enjoy all the thrills and spills…until they realize that a lot of fun is not fun anymore. At least, Augusta figures it out since she is stuck at home as a wife and mother, meaning no more fun for her. Spoiler alert number two: things go south faster than you can say “regret.” We’re talking about property, money, marriage, and yes, even the kids—plummeting down the rabbit hole!
But here’s the kicker that sends my blood pressure skyrocketing: Augusta stands by Edward through thick and thin, believing he’ll pull himself out of this downward spiral. (I’m still fuming over Adah from another novel (”Second Class Citizen”)—why do these characters do this to themselves?) Does Edward rise from the ashes like a phoenix? Of course not! They need the intervention of a well-meaning neighbor, who swoops in to save the day, proving that sometimes or always, a little meddling is exactly what’s needed.
So here’s the million-dollar question: should we really just let everyone mind their own business? What do you think?
So basically, ‘mind your business’ works.. right up until someone starts losing everything: their home, their kids, their dignity. That’s when a little kind-hearted meddling stops being nosy and starts being necessary.
ReplyDeleteShould we always let people handle things on their own? Maybe not. Someone once asked me: if you make it to heaven and see others didn’t, will they turn to you and ask, ‘Why didn’t you warn me?’ That question stuck.
Wow, look at me.. soft-hearted, wise, and slightly nosy. Who knew meddling could be a love language and a public service!
Wow, I can comment here!