Neither Dorking nor the Abbey

"Neither Dorking nor the Abbey" by J. M. Barrie is a thoughtful piece composed around 1909, expressing feelings on life and death. The story serves as a memorial to the writer George Meredith, thinking about the influence he left behind and where he should be honored in remembrance. Barrie illustrates a procession heading toward Dorking after Meredith's death, but instead of sadness, the crowd of children and fans celebrate his life happily. Meredith himself is shown young and cheerful after death, welcomed by other famous writers on Box Hill. The story reveals that great authors live on through their books and memories, showing both the sadness of losing someone and the happiness of celebrating their ongoing importance.