The Mansion by Henry Van Dyke

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About this eBook

Author Van Dyke, Henry, 1852-1933
Illustrator Elliott, Elizabeth Shippen Green, 1871-1954
Title The Mansion
Credits Produced by Jen Haines, Suzanne Shell and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
file was produced from images generously made available
by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries)
Summary "The Mansion" by Henry Van Dyke is a philosophical short story written in the early 20th century. This poignant narrative explores themes of wealth, self-worth, and the true meaning of success through its main character, John Weightman, a self-made man entangled in the expectations of societal status and material wealth. The story delves into the contrast between earthly aspirations and spiritual fulfillment. The plot follows John Weightman, a prosperous banker, who has devoted his life to building a grand reputation and empire based on principles of financial prudence. As he navigates his relationships with his son Harold and his own values, Weightman is struck by a moment of realization after a mysterious encounter following his death. He envisions a journey to a heavenly realm, where he anticipates the magnificent mansion promised to him. However, upon arrival, he is confronted with the stark difference between his expectations and the reality of a modest hut that represents the sum of his true life's work—revealing that his earthly investments were not accrued from genuine love and selflessness. The story ultimately showcases a profound lesson about the nature of true riches and the importance of acts of kindness driven purely by love rather than for profit or recognition. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature
Subject Christmas stories
Subject Christian life -- Fiction
Subject Conduct of life -- Fiction
Subject Christian fiction
Subject Future life -- Fiction
Subject Immortality -- Fiction
Category Text
EBook-No. 38312
Release Date
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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