The World of Chance

"The World of Chance" by William Dean Howells is a story set in the late 19th century, that follows Ray, a young man leaving his old life behind in Midland, as he travels to New York City to follow his dreams of becoming a recognized author. Ray carries his complete novel, with the hopes that it will bring him success. After a goodbye dinner where he considers his past, the changes in his life, and the support from loved ones, he boards a train. During the train ride to New York, he becomes interested in the lives of two young women he observes, showing that he's a good and caring person. Once in New York, the story shifts from his private thoughts to his experiences in the busy city, where he thinks about his writing goals and the challenges he may face. As he starts his life as an aspiring author, Ray's experiences show both the thrill of starting over and the hard truth of trying to make it as a writer in a busy city.