The Happy End

"The Happy End" by Joseph Hergesheimer is a story that looks into the ideas of wanting more, dreams, and tricky relationships in the setting of country living. Calvin Stammark, the main character, is really in love with Hannah Braley and imagines them having a future together. But when Hannah's sister, Phebe, who is now an actress, shows up, things get tense and Calvin's plans might not work out so well. The beginning of the story paints a clear picture of Greenstream, Virginia, and shows us the important people and how they get along. Calvin is excited about marrying Hannah and has even built a house for them, but he also has worries, especially since Phebe is making Hannah curious about a different life away from their mountain home. We see Calvin's inner battles and how he interacts with Hannah and her family, and the story suggests that Phebe might cause some trouble. This sets the stage for a closer look at love, ambition, and trying to find happiness in a world that doesn't always match what we hope for.