Things

"Things" by Alice Duer Miller is a thought-provoking story about a family navigating the complexities of early 20th-century life. The narrative follows Mrs. Royce, a dedicated mother wrestling with her strong-willed daughter Celia's defiant actions. Seeking answers, Mrs. Royce consults Dr. Despard, an alienist, who begins to uncover deep-seated issues within the family structure. Mrs. Royce's unwavering commitment to her family has inadvertently stifled her own personal development and negatively affected those around her including her own children and all of her household staff. Dr. Despard suggests a break at a sanatorium for Mrs. Royce, leading to a study of the ripple effects on her relationships and personal identity. The book gently examines the tension between maternal responsibilities and the pursuit of one's own happiness, highlighting the crucial link between a mother's well-being and the overall health of her family.