The Innocents: A Story for Lovers

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25430

Title

The Innocents: A Story for Lovers

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this charming tale, retired clerks Seth and Mrs. Appleby flee their stifling domestic routine to reclaim their youth. After a daring escape from their daughter's home, they reinvent themselves in a small town, posing as wealthy aristocrats to outwit their critical son-in-law. A lighthearted, romantic comedy celebrating the enduring spirit of love and the joy of starting over.

Summary up to 500 words

In Sinclair Lewis's *The Innocents: A Story for Lovers*, an elderly couple, Seth and Mrs. Appleby, live a stifling existence in New York City as clerks and servants to their daughter, Lulu, and son-in-law, Harris Hartwig. Feeling trapped by their children's judgmental attitudes and rigid expectations, the Applebys devise a daring plan to escape their prescribed roles. Under the cover of darkness, they sneak out of their home, abandoning their luggage and old identities to board a train to the small town of Lipsittsville. Arriving with only twenty-seven dollars, they reinvent themselves as wealthy, sophisticated aristocrats. Seth transforms into a charismatic figure, while his wife dons elegant gowns, and together they host lavish parties for the town's elite, including the local newspaper editor. The central conflict ignites when Harris Hartwig arrives in Lipsittsville, unaware of his parents' new status. Initially humiliated and mocked by the Applebys' fabricated persona, Harris is forced to confront his own narrow-mindedness and lack of appreciation for his aging parents. Through a series of clever social manipulations, Seth exposes Harris's ignorance, teaching him a lesson about the value of his parents' happiness and success. The narrative explores profound themes of aging, the universal desire for freedom, and the complexities of family dynamics. The story highlights the transformative power of imagination, demonstrating that it is never too late to reinvent oneself. Ultimately, the Applebys reclaim their dignity, finding a new chapter filled with joy, mutual affection, and a sense of true home, proving that love and companionship are life's most valuable assets.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/25430.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg25430.epub

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2026-07-04 14:15 UTC

Categories

• Romance
• Fiction