As We Were Saying

"As We Were Saying" by Charles Dudley Warner is a collection of essays written during the late 19th century. The book explores various cultural observations and trends of the time, addressing social issues, fashion, and the changing dynamics of gender roles. Warner examines themes such as the superficiality of societal conventions, the responsibility of writers, and the nature of civilization in an ever-evolving world. The opening of the book sets the stage for its reflective tone, starting with the piece "Rose and Chrysanthemum." In this segment, Warner contrasts the traditional beauty of the rose with the garishness of the chrysanthemum, symbolizing changing societal tastes and the ephemeral nature of fashion. He ponders whether modern life, characterized by ostentation and show, leads to a loss of intrinsic values and genuine sentiment. Warner uses this floral metaphor to delve into deeper questions about individuality, meaning, and the moral implications of changing trends, establishing a framework for the thoughtful critiques present throughout the collection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Charles Dudley Warner was an American essayist, novelist, and friend of Mark Twain, with whom he co-authored the novel The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today.