"Who Are Happiest? and Other Stories" by T.S. Arthur is a collection of short stories that explore various aspects of human nature, particularly the pursuit of happiness, contentment, and personal fulfillment. The stories often feature ordinary characters facing challenges in their lives, addressing issues such as moral integrity, the consequences of choices, and the impact of social and familial relationships. Central to many of the narratives is the idea that true happiness comes from internal peace, selflessness, and the ability to find joy in simple, everyday moments. Through these stories, Arthur examines how individuals navigate personal struggles, from financial hardship to interpersonal conflicts, and highlights the importance of character and virtue. The collection serves as both entertainment and a moral guide, with characters often learning valuable life lessons, ultimately leading to personal growth or a deeper understanding of what it means to lead a fulfilling life. The opening story, which questions who are truly the happiest among various types of people, sets the tone for the moral reflections that follow in the subsequent tales. Each story offers insight into the human condition and the complexity of achieving happiness in an often difficult and demanding world.
Timothy Shay Arthur, commonly known as T.S. Arthur, was a prominent American writer in the 19th century, best remembered for his influential works that addressed social issues of the time. Born on June 6, 1809, in Newburgh, New York, Arthur gained widespread recognition for his temperance novel Ten Nights in a Bar-Room and What I Saw There, which played a significant role in shaping public opinion against alcohol consumption. The novel vividly illustrated the destructive effects of alcohol, helping to advance the temperance movement in the United States. Arthur's writing often explored themes of morality, social reform, and the challenges facing individuals in their personal lives, particularly in relation to family and society. Throughout his career, Arthur wrote numerous novels, short stories, and articles that addressed issues such as domestic life, personal virtue, and the importance of moral responsibility. He passed away on March 6, 1885, at the age of 75 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a legacy of socially conscious literature that continues to be remembered for its impact on American culture and reform movements.
