His Own People

The narrative centers on John Ward, a wealthy young man returning to his Midwestern hometown after years abroad, grappling with the clash between his evolved beliefs and the expectations of his family and friends. His romance with Hortense Rieppe, a woman from a contrasting background, further complicates his struggle for acceptance. Themes of class, tradition, and identity intertwine as John seeks to reconcile his modern ideals with his roots, offering a rich exploration of early 20th-century American society.