Susan Clegg and a Man in the House

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22872

Title

Susan Clegg and a Man in the House

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Susan Clegg, a pragmatic widow, reluctantly agrees to board her friend Mr. Kimball's unemployed nephew, editor Elijah Doxey, for three months. This arrangement leads to a humorous exploration of domestic chaos, gender roles, and the absurdities of small-town life as Susan navigates having a man in her house.

Summary up to 500 words

In Anne Warner's witty comedy, *Susan Clegg and a Man in the House*, the titular protagonist, Susan Clegg, has long maintained a solitary existence following her father's death. Convinced that men are unreliable and troublesome, she firmly rejects marriage, citing the chaotic lives of her neighbors as proof of her stance. Her resolve is tested when her friend, Mr. Kimball, introduces her to his nephew, Elijah Doxey, a displaced newspaper editor seeking temporary lodging. Despite her initial terror at the prospect of a 'man in the house,' Susan agrees to board Elijah for three months. The narrative chronicles the comedic friction of their cohabitation. Susan, a practical and independent woman, finds herself managing Elijah's energetic but clumsy habits, from his muddy boots to his messy editorial lifestyle. The story is punctuated by vignettes involving eccentric neighbors, such as the overzealous Mrs. Macy and the perpetually ill Mrs. Kitts, whose medical dramas provide a backdrop of local gossip and absurdity. Throughout the arrangement, Susan inadvertently becomes the paper's mainstay, supplying the brains and stability that keep Elijah's publication afloat. As the three-month trial progresses, Susan navigates the trials of domestic life, cleaning up messes and tolerating Elijah's peculiarities. Although she admits to liking him at times, her primary goal remains maintaining her independence. The story culminates in Elijah's departure, leaving Susan to reflect on her experience. She concludes that while the arrangement was trying, she is relieved to be free again. The novel reaffirms her commitment to a single life, celebrating female autonomy and the humorous realities of everyday existence without the complications of matrimony. Through Susan's voice, Warner delivers a character-driven comedy that critiques the institution of marriage while honoring the strength of a self-reliant woman.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Humorous stories
• United States -- Social life and customs -- 20th century -- Fiction
• Newspapers -- Fiction