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Cover of What Answer?

What Answer?

Written by Anna E. (Anna Elizabeth) Dickinson

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United StatesLove storiesNew York (N.Y.)War storiesPolitical fictionAfrican AmericansInterracial marriage

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About this book

"What Answer?" by Anna E. Dickinson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a bustling New York City, showcasing the lives of its characters against the backdrop of social issues, especially focusing on themes of ambition, love, and race. The main character appears to be William Surrey, a charming young man grappling with societal expectations and his burgeoning interest in a mysterious girl. The opening of the novel introduces a lively scene on Fifth Avenue, filled with the city's elite, as William Surrey muses over the luxurious yet superficial lifestyle. He is soon captivated by a young girl he spots from a window, prompting him to chase after her. This initial pursuit is filled with youthful optimism and charm while contrasting sharply with an impending conflict regarding race within his father's foundry, particularly concerning a talented black employee named Franklin. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of personal dilemmas amid broader societal issues as William faces choices that may define his character and affect those around him.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in What Answer?, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Thought-provoking
  • Social commentary
  • Serious

Anna E. Dickinson's "What Answer?" is a compelling late 19th-century novel set in bustling New York City, exploring profound social issues through the lens of personal dilemmas. It centers on William Surrey, a charming young man from the city's elite, whose initial superficial musings on Fifth Avenue quickly give way to a moral awakening. His romantic pursuit of a mysterious girl intertwines with an escalating racial conflict within his father's foundry, involving a talented Black employee named Franklin. The narrative skillfully juxtaposes individual ambition and love against the backdrop of systemic prejudice, forcing William to confront choices that will define his character and challenge the prevailing social order.

“"Fifth Avenue, a glittering stream of humanity, yet beneath the surface, a current of indifference flowed, cold and swift."”

Key themes

Race and Prejudice
This is the central theme, exploring the pervasive nature of racial discrimination in late 19th-century America. The novel delves into how prejudice affects individuals like Franklin, limits opportunities, and challenges the moral fabric of society. It examines both overt acts of racism and the more subtle, systemic biases that sustain inequality.
Individual Responsibility vs. Societal Pressure
This theme examines the conflict between an individual's moral conscience and the expectations or pressures of society. William Surrey's dilemma embodies this, as he must decide whether to uphold his personal ethics by defending Franklin or succumb to the comfort and social acceptance offered by ignoring the injustice.
Love and Moral Growth
The novel explores how love, both romantic and humanitarian, can serve as a catalyst for personal transformation and moral growth. William's pursuit of the mysterious girl intertwines with his growing awareness of social injustice, suggesting that true love and a meaningful life are inseparable from a commitment to ethical principles.

Worth discussing

How does William Surrey's initial pursuit of the 'mysterious girl' reflect his broader desire for something beyond his privileged existence?

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