Cutting It Out: How to get on the waterwagon and stay there

"Cutting It Out: How to get on the waterwagon and stay there" by Samuel G. Blythe is a personal narrative written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around Blythe's decision to quit drinking alcohol—what he refers to as getting "on the waterwagon." It explores his experiences, reflections, and the emotional journey he undertook as he navigated through his established drinking habits and started embracing sobriety. In the book, Blythe shares candid insights about his relationship with alcohol, noting that while he was not an alcoholic in the conventional sense, he felt compelled to reevaluate his drinking habits as he grew older. He avoids presenting himself as a moral reformer; instead, he discusses the personal decision to quit drinking at a time when he felt it was still enjoyable, emphasizing the importance of individual choice rather than social pressure. The narrative details the challenges he faced, including cravings and changes in social dynamics, while ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of himself and the choices he made. Throughout the chapters, Blythe reflects on the social aspects of drinking, the delusions many harbor about their habits, and the importance of recognizing one's own motivations and needs when making significant lifestyle changes.