The Quest of the Simple Life

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Dawson, W. J. (William James), 1854-1928.

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"The Quest of the Simple Life" by W. J. Dawson is a philosophical exploration of urban living versus a simpler, country life, written in the early 20th century. The narrative combines personal reflection with observations on the nature of happiness and discontent, primarily centered on the author's experiences in London. The book delves into the struggles of seeking fulfillment against the backdrop of the relentless demands of city life. The opening of the book presents the author's introspective journey as he grapples with the duality of life in London-appreciating its vibrancy while feeling constrained by its monotony. He recounts his evolving perception of the city, describing how the charm of urban existence fades under the weight of daily obligations and the realization that his life feels akin to a "House of Bondage." As he reflects on his surroundings, the author details moments of fleeting joy amidst the struggles, ultimately igniting a deep yearning for a simpler, more connected life in nature, thereby setting the stage for his quest for personal happiness beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

The house of bondage

Getting the best out of life

Getting a living, and living

Earth-hunger

Health and economics

In search of the picturesque

I find my cottage

Buying happiness

How we lived

Neighbourship

The wounds of a friend

Am I right?

The city of the future.

Credits:

E-text prepared by Al Haines

Notes:

Reading ease score: 62.2 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 2005-12-06