The Common Lot

"The Common Lot" by Robert Herrick is a story from the beginning of the 20th century that starts with the funeral of a wealthy businessman and introduces his nephew, Jackson Hart, whose life is changed by his uncle's death and the surprising contents of the will, which focuses on his giving nature. The story gives insight into tricky relationships, class issues, and moral problems. The book starts with a sad scene and an exploration of feelings about someone who just passed, and then goes into the nephew's confused feelings as the will reveals that most of the money is going to a school for kids from the working class, which rocks Jackson's world and makes him rethink what he wants in a city driven by money and big dreams.