Mother

"Mother" by Owen Wister is a story about love, what society expects from people, and complicated relationships, especially during a house party where a group of friends want to hear a story from Richard Field’s life. Richard tells everyone how he got engaged to Ethel and the problems they had because of what others thought and his own worries, focusing on when he was a clerk who didn't have much money. The story shows his hopes for love and the money troubles that almost kept him and Ethel from being together. As Richard talks, he emphasizes how important family is and the hard feelings that come with being a husband and soon a father. The story mixes funny moments with deep thinking, ending with Richard understanding that his love for Ethel and their connection are the most important things, no matter what others might think. The story explores how love is stronger than problems and what people expect from each other.