Strangers and Wayfarers

"Strangers and Wayfarers" by Sarah Orne Jewett is a compilation of short stories that capture the spirit of 19th-century New England through the lives of its inhabitants, highlighting the role of community and the essence of human connection. The book begins by introducing the reader to the timid mail driver Mr. Briley, who gives Mrs. Fanny Tobin a ride on a frigid winter day through an empty landscape. A warm but uneasy discussion unfolds; this conversation is full of anecdotes and shared life experiences. Mrs. Tobin's yearning for her home, coupled with Mr. Briley’s reflections on potential adventures, reveal deep personal feelings and anxieties, establishing a foundation for meaningful relationships and character development as the story progresses. Jewett uses their dialogue to create a vivid image of country living, emphasizing the importance of friendship and leaving the reader eager to explore how these themes play out in other stories throughout the collection.