Through the Eye of the Needle: A Romance

** "Through the Eye of the Needle: A Romance" by William Dean Howells is a tale that uses the eyes of Aristides Homos, an envoy from the utopian society of Altruria, to examine American culture. As Aristides experiences the world of New York in the late 19th century, readers see his reflections on the vast differences between the Altrurian Commonwealth and the reality of American life. Through a series of letters, Homos reveals his thoughts on American society, grappling with its economic competitiveness, charity systems, and the vast inequalities between different classes. He forms relationships, most notably with Mrs. Makely, whose character allows for examinations into domestic life and social standards, setting the stage for a wider look at love and the possibilities of a better society. **