Tag: Literature

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Revisiting a Childhood Classic: How Daddy-Long-Legs Shaped My Love for Literature

While my husband and I were cleaning the siding of our house, I found a Daddy-long-legs spider. That small moment reminded me of one of my favorite childhood books, Daddy-Long-Legs, by Jean Webster. I loved this book so much that I spent countless hours reading it repeatedly. Revisiting books I cherished in my youth allowed me to see them in a new light as an adult, and I was curious how I would perceive Daddy-Long-Legs this time.

I had so much difficulties creating a picture for this one. Created via NightCafe

Initially published in 1912, Jean Webster’s novel was quite popular when I was growing up, especially among children. This book had an immense impact and introduced me to many other books. When I found the spider, I took it as a sign to revisit this book.

Plot Summary:

Jerusha “Judy” Abbott is a 17-year-old orphan who has spent her entire life in the John Grier Home, an orphanage. She is optimistic despite her unfortunate circumstances and grim future as an orphan. Judy is skilled at writing – which prompted an anonymous benefactor, one of the orphanage’s trustees, to offer to send her to college on the condition that she write him letters regularly to update him on her progress. Mrs. Lippert, the orphanage administrator, told her that Judy was not to expect any replies or attempt to discover his identity. She never met her benefactor. Her only glimpse of him is a shadow on the wall in the orphanage hallway, which reminds her of a long-legged spider, so she whimsically nicknames him “Daddy-Long-Legs.”

Judy is surrounded by girls from affluent backgrounds at college and quickly realizes how different her upbringing was. For example, she seemed ignorant of certain books every girl read, such as “Little Women.” Undeterred, she sets out to bridge this gap, immersing herself in books, studying diligently, and working to improve her education. Her unwavering determination, despite the odds, is truly inspiring as she begins to blossom intellectually and socially, learning about life beyond the orphanage. 

Judy becomes close friends with her roommates, including Julia Pendleton, who comes from a wealthy family. Julia asks Judy to meet her uncle, Mr. Jervis Pendleton, who is 14 years older than them. Over time, Judy grows fond of Mr. Jervis. However, she initially keeps her feelings to herself, fearful of how to navigate her growing emotions.

As Judy’s education progresses, she gains confidence and sees her potential as a writer. She earns a scholarship (her sponsor told her to decline). She even sells her first piece of writing for $50, a testament to her emerging talent as a writer. Her growth, from a young orphan to a confident and talented individual is something to be proud of. At one point, her mysterious benefactor, Daddy-Long-Legs, suggests she spend a summer in Europe to broaden her horizons, but Judy declines, wanting to remain grounded in her studies. Mr. Jervis tries to persuade her to go, but she stays firm in her decision.

Judy’s feelings for Mr. Jervis deepen, but she is afraid to confess everything about her past to him, worrying about how it might affect their relationship. She is also worried that her upbringing may negatively impact him. A misunderstanding arises when Mr. Jervis believes Judy has feelings for Jimmy McBride, the brother of her close friend Sally. He misunderstands that Judy would like to marry Jimmy. Hurt and confused, he distances himself from her.

Missing Mr. Jervis, Judy writes to Daddy-Long-Legs about her feelings toward him and how she messed up her relationship entirely due to fear. Later, she is summoned by her benefactor’s secretary, who informs her that her mysterious sponsor is ill. When Judy visits him, she is stunned to discover that Mr. Jervis Pendleton has been her benefactor, Daddy-Long-Legs all along. Their mutual feelings are finally revealed, and the novel ends with Judy and Jervis coming together in love.

Historical and Social Context

Daddy-Long-Legs is a romantic novel with an exciting twist. It was written when few people, especially women and orphans, could attend university. In the early 20th century, like the book’s protagonist, Judy, total orphans often faced grim futures. Many were destined for lives of servitude or were sent West to work on farms. Unlike Judy’s fairy-tale-like experience, most real-life orphans were not so fortunate.

Orphanages have existed in the United States since the mid-19th century, and charitable organizations often found them. The need for them grew between 1830 and 1850 due to health epidemics such as Cholera and Tuberculosis. Many children in these institutions were housed temporarily until their parents could recover financially. Only about 30% of orphans were “total orphans,” with no family to return to. Life after the orphanage was often bleak for these children, with few opportunities. The U.S., like other countries, usually sent these orphans to far-flung areas for labor, much like Anne of Green Gables depicts. Judy’s story in Daddy-Long-Legs, where she receives an education and support from a benefactor, is closer to a fairy tale.

Regarding female education, the U.S. held relatively progressive views from the early 19th century onward. The first women’s college was established in 1836; by 1875, around 50 colleges opened their doors to women. Many scholars trace this educational progress back to the influence of New England Puritan beliefs, emphasizing that boys and girls should be able to read. Primary schooling became more accessible, and by 1750, nearly 90% of women in New England were literate, with some advancing to secondary education. However, formal schooling was still limited to those with means, which is why many young women, like Judy, needed a benefactor to attend college.

Judy’s benefactor, Mr. Jervis, is mentioned as a socialist in her letters, adding a unique dimension to his role. In the context of early 20th-century America, his support for Judy’s education reflects a progressive outlook that was not common for his time.

Impression of the Book

Daddy-Long-Legs is written epistolary, where the narrative unfolds through letters. Through Judy’s correspondence, we witness her journey from a young girl to an independent young woman. As I read the book, I was pleasantly surprised by how clearly her letters convey her growth. While there is a romantic element to the story, I believe the author’s primary focus is on the importance of education for all, regardless of gender or social status.

Despite the progressive strides in education, gender expectations remained robust in early 20th-century America. These can also be explored in other works, such as The Awakening. At the time, it was still uncommon for a girl of Judy’s background to receive such an education, let alone attend university.

Personal Impact

Reading Daddy-Long-Legs brought back memories of other works I encountered at an early age, such as Little Women, Vanity Fair, David Copperfield, and Hamlet. I had already read these books by the time I graduated elementary school.

As a child, I remember being surprised by the revelation that Mr. Jervis was Judy’s benefactor. However, in hindsight, the clues were evident throughout the story. For example, his interest in literature, like taking the girls to see Macbeth, hinted at his identity. His actions, preventing Judy from spending the summer at Sally’s house, may have been motivated by a hint of jealousy towards Jimmy. Reading the book now, with full knowledge of the ending, I see all the signs I missed in my younger years. That plot twist left a lasting impression on me as a child.

As a young reader, the more English Literature I read, the more I want to learn English to read all this literature in English. I also thought about the possibilities that Education could open future options later in my life. Nothing is 100%; however, introducing a book like “Daddy-Long-Legs” can impact a young child.

References

Carlton, G. (2023, March 20). A History of Women in Higher Education | BestColleges. https://www.bestcolleges.com/news/analysis/2021/03/21/history-women-higher-education/

Women’s education in the United States. (2024, August 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_education_in_the_United_States

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Exploring the Irony of Banned Books in Key West

During my trip to Key West, I had an unforgettable experience at The Studios of Key West, located at Simonton Street and Eaton Street. The building caught our attention with its modern design and stylish window displays. Knowing my passion for books, my husband pointed it out during our first encounter with the place. Although we initially passed it by due to a planned visit to Hemingway’s house, we returned later.

Inside, I stumbled upon an intriguing book titled “Read These Banned Books,” published by the American Library Association. Flipping through it, I discovered a list of 100 books, some of which were familiar to me as dystopian novels, like “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley, “1984” by George Orwell, and “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins.

The term “banned” doesn’t imply that these books are entirely unavailable in the United States. They can be bought or borrowed from someone who has them, though they might not be found in your local library or school. Interestingly, The Studios of Key West had these books on display, reinforcing the belief that literature should remain uncensored.

It struck me as ironic that books like “Brave New World” and “1984,” which portray worlds plagued by extreme censorship, are themselves banned. If “Fahrenheit 451” were also on the list, it would complete the books I’ve discussed in a previous blog about literary censorship.

As someone who cherishes reading, I find banning books disheartening. While I’m no book critic or expert, I trust my ability to recognize compelling literature, which often leaves me with mixed feelings about banned books.

Now, I’d like to share a darker story and caution sensitive readers to proceed with care. In 2012, a book was published under a pseudonym by an author, Shonen A, who confessed to committing murders in Kobe, Japan, in 1997. The author was underage, and the name was not released. The victims were grade-schoolers, and the book was released without the knowledge of the victims’ families. I personally choose not to read or purchase such a book, as I cannot support profiting from others’ tragedies. The important thing is that I decided not to read the book.

Despite not being a professional critic, my curiosity drives me to explore these controversial books, many of which are influential yet banned. This exploration is not just about reading; it’s also about understanding the reasons behind their bans. I came across a lecture series titled “Banned Books, Burned Books Forbidden Literary Works,” which I plan to follow while I delve into these banned books.

There are 100 banned books on the list. It will take time to read them all, but I am committed to reading them slowly and with intent. My goal is not just to read but also to research and understand the context of their bans, ultimately forming my own opinions on whether these books deserve to be censored.

This journey through banned books is not only about discovery but also a personal statement on the importance of freedom in literature and the right to choose what we read, regardless of the controversy surrounding the content.

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Audiobooks: A Lifeline and a Waiting Game

November 26, 2023

Deaar Reader,

A delightful notification popped up on my phone this morning, brightening my day. Exciting news is on the horizon: a fresh Brandon Sanderson audiobook is set to grace Audible’s shelves later this month.

 

Following a brain stroke, audiobooks have become an indispensable part of my life. The stroke resulted in double vision, transforming the simple joy of reading into a daunting task. Once an avid reader, I now rely on audiobooks to indulge my passion for literature.

 

It was my wife who first introduced me to the world of audiobooks. Initially, she thought they’d be a perfect companion for her during routine, undemanding tasks. However, she soon realized that her preference lay in the tactile experience of reading a traditional book instead of listening to one.

Nevertheless, there needs to be more snags when it comes to audiobooks. Often, their release needs to catch up to the print version. At times, specific titles don’t even make it to audiobook format, which has been the case with some of Brandon Sanderson’s works, making me uneasy that they might never be available in audio form. Although they might exist on other platforms, I have yet to find the right one. 

 

“Tres of the Emerald Sea” by Brandon Sanderson is a prime example.

I haven’t extensively searched other platforms, hoping they will eventually appear on Audible. That is why announcing a new audiobook release is even more thrilling, as it could signal the arrival of his other elusive titles.

 

In the meantime, patience is the virtue I aim to embrace. And what a delightful coincidence it is that the release of this new book coincides with our wedding anniversary. It’s as if Brandon Sanderson himself is bestowing a thoughtful gift upon us. How considerate of him, indeed.

 

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If You Feel Uneasy, Read This Book: Hojoki

With recent Tornado and COVID outbreaks, I have felt constant uneasiness for the last year or so. I picked up a book, the Hojoki. The Hojoki is a collection of literary essays from Kamo no Chomei (鴨長明). The Hojoki is regarded as one of the three great Zuihitsu (essays). The Hojoki was written around 1212.

In the Hojoki, Chomei wrote about Mujokan (無常観), the awareness of impermanence, a fundamental Buddhist philosophy principle. Things never stay permanent. Everything changes even if they don’t seem to change in appearance.

The last time I read this book was when I was in my teens. I still remember the first part because we had to learn the first part of my school’s curriculum. It was so poetic that I memorized the opening of this book.

I translated the opening of the book.

Look at the river carefully. The flow of the water never ceased.
You realize the river exists all the time, but the water in the river never stays the same.
The bubbles floating in the river constantly bursting and reform, and they are never lingering.
Just like the water and the bubbles in the river, people and their dwellings in the world keeps changing.
There is nothing in the world that stays permanent.

In the opening sentence, Chomei wrote about the awareness of the transience of things by giving the exact things he experienced. This opening poem reminds me of Pantha Rhei, the ever-present change expressed by The Greek Philosopher Heraclitus of Ephesus (535 – 475BC).

Before I explain further about this book, I would like to introduce Chomei’s life quickly. He was born in 1155 as the 2nd son of Negi at Shimogamo temple. Negi is the title of a person who leads Shinto rituals at a Shinto Temple. Many wealthy people made donations to Shinto temples to avoid disaster. Therefore, some temples, such as Shimogamo Temple, became wealthy. Chomei had a luxurious childhood.

Although, it did not last long. When Chomei was 18 years old, his father passed away. Since Chomei’s mother was already passed away, he had no allies during inheritance conflicts among his relatives. As a result, Chomei was left with nothing. He decided to abandon his relatives and duties at the Shinto temple and mastered playing the Biwa (a Biwa is a plucked string instrument resembling a lute) and creating waka. Waka is a classic Japanese poem that contains 31 morae.

At the age of 47, he had another opportunity to regain his social status. At this time, Chomei mastered playing Biwa, and he was a well-regarded poet. He was appointed as one of the editors of Chyokusen Waka Shyu. Because he worked so hard on the new role as an editor, he was given a chance to be a Negi at a Tadasunoyashiro temple by Gotoba Tenno, the 87th Japanese Tenno. Although, Chomei lost this opportunity because his relatives objected. Chomei’s relatives believed that he was not entitled to the position because Chomei abandoned his duties at another Shinto temple. The Tenno agreed with their objection, so Chomei did not get the role. Chomei became a Buddhist monk at forty-nine and lived in a 10- square foot house in a mountain until his death with great disappointment.

All essays in the Hojoki were Chomei’s historical statements about his own experiences and five disasters he experienced: fires, Whirlwind, relocation of the nation’s capital, flood, and earthquake. He mainly experienced them in his 20’s.

The disasters Written in the Hojoki:

The Great Fire at Angen (23 years old) – 1177

The Whirlwind at Chishyo (26 years old)

Fukuhara Sento – Moving of Capital city (26 years old) 1180

Famine at Yowa (27 years) – 1181

Earthquake in Genryaku (31 years old) – 1185

The Genpei War 1180-1185

He lived in a Chaotic World. In 1180, the Genpei War started. It was a national civil war between the Taira and The Minamoto clans. The battle lasted five years, and the Taira clan lost. In 1192, Yoritomo Minamoto was finally granted the title of the imperial commission, Sei-I Tai Shogun, and a feudal state in Japan arose. I will not get into the Genpei War in this article; however, I found many videos about it. I will share links to the videos below. You are free to check the videos that explain the war very well.

Chomei wrote what he observed and felt from the disasters he experienced. Then, he stated that history keeps repeating because we seem to forget the lessons learned from the horrible disasters.

People talked about the disasters when they occurred.
However, we forget as time passes.
Thus, we never learned from them.

After the war of Genpei, Japan turned into a feudal state which lasted until the Edo period started. We experienced multiple wars as if we did not learn a thing from each war.
As of 2021, we still live in the middle of the COVID pandemic, which has claimed many lives. Will we still remember this pandemic a few decades later? Can we react better when the next pandemic strikes? In order not to repeat the disaster, we should not forget what happened.

In the last part of this book, Chomei wrote about how to live from his point of view. His life experiences influenced him greatly. He suggests living freely without depending on others. He means not being too obsessed with people, materials, or social status as all things in the world are ephemeral.


Yet, in the final part of this book, he wrote.

I left material life.
I live and act like a monk
I preach not to be obsessed with things.
I questioned myself.
Yet, why do I still write about my life?
All I could say was “Amitabha.”

His book captured my heart because they were written from his personal experience. Throughout his writing, I still sense his deep sorrow. This book contains the conclusions he reached after his affairs. At the same time, I feel somehow lifted because he retained his humanity. It is ok if we lose time to time. I am encouraged by the book because it made me realize that things I worry over are also not permanent.


I recommend that anyone read this book, especially if you feel uneasy that there is no certainty in life; If you do not know what to do or have difficulties from relationships. The book shows you a different way of living life.

The book shows a different way of living life – a life without obsession. Of course, it is good to work hard on something. Don’t invest too much of your energy or emotion in them because nothing lasts forever.