Analysis
Ring Lardner's literary legacy is marked by his keen ear for regional dialects and his adept use of humor and satire to explore the intricacies of human nature. His stories often oscillate between lighthearted humor and biting cynicism, reflecting his complex view of humanity. Whether through the bumbling antics of Jack Keefe in "You Know Me Al" or the dark satire of "Haircut," Lardner's tales offer a unique window into both the virtues and vices of early 20th-century America.
Lardner’s Literary Techniques and Themes
Lardner's mastery of the third-person narrative, often using a character within the story to relate events, sets his work apart. This narrative style allows him to effectively capture the essence of regional dialects, making his characters' conversations come alive with authenticity. Thematically, Lardner's stories can be categorized broadly into two groups: humorous tales and satirical narratives. The former, prevalent during the early stages of his career, often feature characters who stumble into amusing predicaments due to their linguistic shortcomings. For instance, the protagonist Jack Keefe from You Know Me Al embodies several characteristics that highlight Lardner's preoccupation with communication failures—whether through inarticulateness, excessive literalism, or inability to listen.
On the other hand, Lardner's satirical stories delve into the darker aspects of human nature and society. As his career progressed, his writing increasingly exposed his skepticism and disillusionment with people. Stories like "Haircut" vividly depict the hypocrisy of small-town America, while "Champion" critiques the brutal, cutthroat nature of the sports industry. Lardner's observations of the materialism and desperation that marked the 1920s and the subsequent Great Depression infused his later works with a discernible bitterness.
Exploring Lardner’s Short Stories
"Some Like Them Cold"
In "Some Like Them Cold," Lardner presents a cynical view of human relationships through the correspondence between Charles Lewis, an aspiring songwriter, and Mabelle Gillespie, a young woman from Chicago. Charles represents himself as a rising star seeking a loyal wife, skillfully masking his opportunism. Mabelle, interpreting Charles's letters as genuine romantic interest, portrays herself as a virtuous "nice girl." However, both characters are ultimately revealed as opportunists—Charles is opportunistically seeking a supportive wife, while Mabelle views him as a future meal ticket. The story concludes with Charles shifting his affections to a more advantageous match, while Mabelle's final bitter letter exposes her as worldly and disillusioned.
"The Golden Honeymoon"
Contrasting the cynicism of "Some Like Them Cold," "The Golden Honeymoon" highlights Lardner's ability to infuse humor with warmth. The story follows Charley and Lucy Frost as they celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary in Florida, only to find themselves embroiled in a petty rivalry with Lucy's former suitor, Frank Hartsell. Despite the jealousy and squabbles that arise, Charley and Lucy ultimately reconcile, reaffirming their enduring love. The tale's gentle humor underscores Lardner's belief in the fundamental goodness of people, even when they are at their most flawed.
"Haircut"
"Haircut" stands as one of Lardner's most powerful satires, stripping away the veneer of small-town decency to reveal the underlying moral blindness. Narrated by a town barber, the story centers around Jim Kendall, a man whose "practical jokes" mask a deep-seated cruelty. Kendall delights in humiliating others, and his mean-spirited antics eventually lead to his demise when the "cuckoo" Paul Dickson exacts revenge. Lardner's portrayal of the townspeople's failure to recognize Kendall's true nature reflects a broader indictment of societal complacency and moral complicity. The story's subtle irony forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the human capacity for cruelty and denial.
"Champion"
In "Champion," Lardner presents a stark portrayal of brutality and ambition through the character of Midge Kelly. As a prizefighter, Midge's life is...
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marked by victory and violence, both in the ring and in his personal relationships. His ruthless nature is exemplified by his willingness to exploit and discard those who support him, including his own family. Lardner's depiction of Midge as an embodiment of unchecked brutality and the societal rewards that accompany it serves as a scathing critique of the American valorization of aggression and success at any cost.
"Ex Parte"
"Ex Parte" offers a more nuanced exploration of marital discord, told from the perspective of a man attempting to justify the failure of his marriage. The narrator's efforts to appease his wife with a surprise new house and its shiny, modern furnishings backfire when she expresses a preference for the rustic charm of antiques. Lardner deftly avoids casting a clear victim or villain, instead illustrating how both spouses are ensnared by superficial values. Through this story, Lardner critiques the materialistic underpinnings of modern relationships and the emptiness that accompanies them.
Lardner’s Legacy and Moral Vision
Although Lardner's stories can be interpreted in various ways, it is clear that he was a moralist at heart. His stories often function as cautionary tales that highlight human flaws through humor and irony. Rather than being a misanthrope or a mere humorist, Lardner shared a kinship with his contemporary F. Scott Fitzgerald in their exploration of the moral landscape of their time. Through his characters' dialogues and actions, Lardner unveils truths about society's meanness, vanity, and cruelty.
Lardner's ear for American speech and his ability to weave moral insights with satire have solidified his position as a notable figure in American literature. His best works transcend mere entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on readers by challenging them to reflect on the complexities of human behavior and societal norms. Lardner's legacy endures not only in his humor and satire but also in the enduring truths his stories continue to reveal about the human condition.
