Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a novel published in 1914 that tells the story of a timid and unremarkable man named Martin Wrenn. Despite his unassuming nature, Wrenn embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes him from his mundane life in New York City to the adventure of a lifetime in Europe. This article provides a brief summary of the novel and explores some of its key themes and motifs.
Background Information
Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” was published in 1914 and is considered one of his early works. The novel follows the life of a timid and unassuming man named Martin Wrenn, who works as a clerk in a New York City firm. Wrenn is dissatisfied with his mundane life and longs for adventure and excitement. When he inherits a small sum of money, he decides to embark on a journey to Europe, where he hopes to find the fulfillment he craves. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the search for meaning in life. It is a poignant and insightful portrayal of the human condition, and remains a classic of American literature.
Plot Overview
“Our Mr. Wrenn” by Sinclair Lewis is a novel that follows the life of a timid and unassuming man named Martin Wrenn. Martin works as a clerk in a New York City firm and spends his free time daydreaming about adventure and travel. One day, Martin decides to take a chance and embark on a journey to Europe. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters and experiences a range of emotions, from excitement to heartbreak. As Martin navigates his way through unfamiliar territory, he begins to discover his own inner strength and courage. Ultimately, “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a story about self-discovery and the transformative power of travel.
Main Characters
The main character of Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a timid and unassuming man named Martin Wrenn. He works as a low-level clerk in a New York City firm and spends his free time dreaming of adventure and travel. Despite his desire for excitement, Wrenn is content to live a quiet and unremarkable life. However, when he inherits a small sum of money, he decides to take a trip to Europe. This journey changes Wrenn in unexpected ways, as he encounters new people and experiences that challenge his worldview. Through Wrenn’s journey, Lewis explores themes of self-discovery, the search for meaning, and the power of travel to transform a person’s life.
Setting
The setting of Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is primarily in New York City during the early 1900s. The novel takes readers on a journey through the bustling streets of the city, from the crowded tenements to the luxurious hotels. The city serves as a backdrop for the story of Mr. Wrenn, a timid and unassuming man who longs for adventure and excitement. As he navigates the city, Mr. Wrenn encounters a variety of characters, each with their own unique stories and struggles. Through his interactions with these characters, Mr. Wrenn begins to discover his own sense of identity and purpose. The setting of “Our Mr. Wrenn” plays a crucial role in shaping the story and the characters, providing a rich and vivid backdrop for this classic novel.
Themes
One of the main themes in Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is the search for identity and belonging. The protagonist, Mr. Wrenn, is a shy and unassuming man who feels out of place in his mundane job and lonely existence. He yearns for adventure and excitement, but is too afraid to take risks and step out of his comfort zone. Throughout the novel, Mr. Wrenn embarks on a journey of self-discovery, as he travels to Europe and meets new people who challenge his beliefs and broaden his horizons. Ultimately, he learns to embrace his true self and find a sense of belonging in the world. Another important theme in the novel is the contrast between American and European culture. Mr. Wrenn is fascinated by the exoticism and sophistication of Europe, but also realizes the flaws and limitations of American society. The novel offers a critique of the materialism and conformity of American life, and suggests that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found through personal growth and human connection.
Symbolism
Symbolism plays a significant role in Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn.” The novel is filled with various symbols that represent different themes and ideas. For instance, the title character, Mr. Wrenn, symbolizes the average American man who is struggling to find his place in society. His journey to Europe represents his search for adventure and a sense of purpose in life. The city of New York, where Mr. Wrenn lives, symbolizes the fast-paced and chaotic nature of modern society. The novel also uses the symbol of the clock to represent the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Overall, the use of symbolism in “Our Mr. Wrenn” adds depth and meaning to the story, allowing readers to explore the themes and ideas presented in the novel in a more profound way.
Writing Style
Sinclair Lewis’ writing style in “Our Mr. Wrenn” is characterized by its simplicity and straightforwardness. He uses short sentences and uncomplicated language to convey the story of Mr. Wrenn, a timid and unassuming man who longs for adventure and excitement. Lewis’ style is effective in creating a sense of empathy for Mr. Wrenn and his struggles, as well as in highlighting the societal pressures and expectations that he faces. Overall, Lewis’ writing style in “Our Mr. Wrenn” is accessible and engaging, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.
Reception and Criticism
Upon its publication in 1914, “Our Mr. Wrenn” received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised Sinclair Lewis’ portrayal of the everyday struggles of a working-class man, while others criticized the novel for its lack of a clear plot and character development. Despite the mixed reception, the novel went on to become a bestseller and helped establish Lewis as a prominent American author. In more recent years, “Our Mr. Wrenn” has been reevaluated and appreciated for its realistic depiction of early 20th century urban life and its exploration of themes such as identity, loneliness, and the search for meaning.
Historical Context
Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” was published in 1914, a time when the United States was experiencing significant social and economic changes. The country was transitioning from an agrarian society to an industrialized one, and the effects of urbanization were becoming more apparent. The Progressive Era was also in full swing, with a focus on social and political reform.
During this time, there was a growing sense of disillusionment with the American Dream, as many people struggled to achieve economic success and social mobility. The novel reflects this sense of disillusionment, as the protagonist, Mr. Wrenn, is a lonely and unfulfilled clerk who dreams of adventure and escape from his mundane life.
Additionally, the novel was published just a few years before the outbreak of World War I, which would have a profound impact on American society and culture. The war would bring about significant changes in gender roles, race relations, and political ideologies.
Overall, “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a product of its time, reflecting the social and cultural changes that were taking place in early 20th century America.
Analysis of the Title
The title of Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a simple yet intriguing one. It immediately introduces us to the protagonist of the story, Mr. Wrenn, and suggests that the story will revolve around him. The use of the possessive pronoun “our” also implies a sense of familiarity and intimacy with the character, as if the reader is being invited to get to know Mr. Wrenn on a personal level.
The title also hints at the possibility of a transformation or journey for Mr. Wrenn. The use of the possessive pronoun suggests that he may not be the same person by the end of the story as he was at the beginning. Additionally, the use of the title “Mr.” rather than a first name or nickname suggests a certain formality or distance, which could be indicative of Mr. Wrenn’s initial state of being.
Overall, the title of “Our Mr. Wrenn” sets up expectations for a character-driven story with the potential for personal growth and transformation.
Significance of the Ending
The ending of Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is significant in that it represents a turning point for the protagonist. Throughout the novel, Wrenn is portrayed as a timid and unassuming man who is content with his mundane life. However, in the final chapter, he takes a bold step and decides to leave his job and embark on a journey to Europe. This decision marks a significant shift in Wrenn’s character, as he finally breaks free from his comfort zone and embraces the unknown. The ending also leaves the reader with a sense of hope and possibility, as Wrenn’s journey represents the potential for growth and self-discovery. Overall, the ending of “Our Mr. Wrenn” serves as a powerful conclusion to a novel that explores the themes of identity, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness.
Comparison to Other Works by Sinclair Lewis
Compared to other works by Sinclair Lewis, “Our Mr. Wrenn” is often considered one of his lesser-known novels. However, it still showcases Lewis’ signature style of satirical social commentary and his ability to create complex, flawed characters. In contrast to his later works such as “Babbitt” and “Main Street,” “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a more lighthearted and optimistic tale of self-discovery and personal growth. It lacks the biting criticism of American society that Lewis became known for, but still offers a charming and relatable story of a man trying to find his place in the world. Overall, while “Our Mr. Wrenn” may not be as well-known as some of Lewis’ other works, it still holds up as a worthwhile read for fans of his writing.
Impact on American Literature
Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” (1914) had a significant impact on American literature. The novel is considered one of the earliest examples of American literary naturalism, a movement that emerged in the late 19th century and sought to depict the harsh realities of life in a rapidly industrializing society. Naturalist writers like Lewis were interested in exploring the ways in which social and economic forces shaped individual lives, and “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a prime example of this approach. The novel tells the story of a timid, unassuming clerk who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and ultimately finds his place in the world. Through Wrenn’s experiences, Lewis offers a critique of the capitalist system and the ways in which it can stifle individual creativity and fulfillment. The novel’s themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a complex world would go on to influence generations of American writers, from Ernest Hemingway to J.D. Salinger. Overall, “Our Mr. Wrenn” is a seminal work in the history of American literature, and its impact can still be felt today.
Adaptations and Interpretations
One of the most notable adaptations of Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” is the 1924 film adaptation titled “The Only Woman.” Directed by Sidney Olcott, the film starred silent film actress Norma Talmadge as the female lead, and Thomas Meighan as the titular character, Mr. Wrenn. The film deviates from the original plot in several ways, including changing the setting from New York City to Paris, and adding a romantic subplot between Mr. Wrenn and the female lead. Despite these changes, the film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and is still considered a classic of the silent film era. Other adaptations of “Our Mr. Wrenn” include a 1937 radio adaptation, and a 1956 television adaptation.
Gender and Social Issues in the Novel
Gender and social issues play a significant role in Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn.” The novel explores the societal expectations placed on men and women during the early 20th century. Mr. Wrenn, the protagonist, is a shy and timid man who is constantly belittled by his boss and colleagues for not conforming to traditional masculine ideals. On the other hand, women in the novel are expected to be submissive and obedient to their husbands or fathers. This is evident in the character of Mrs. Mumble, who is controlled by her husband and has no agency of her own. The novel also touches on issues of class and poverty, as Mr. Wrenn struggles to make ends meet and is forced to live in a boarding house with other working-class individuals. Overall, “Our Mr. Wrenn” provides a glimpse into the gender and social issues of the time and highlights the struggles of those who did not fit into societal norms.
Religious and Philosophical Themes
Religious and philosophical themes are prevalent throughout Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn.” The novel explores the idea of finding one’s place in the world and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Mr. Wrenn, the protagonist, is a lonely and unfulfilled man who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, he encounters various characters who challenge his beliefs and force him to question his values. The novel also touches on the themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Through Mr. Wrenn’s experiences, the reader is invited to reflect on their own beliefs and values and consider what truly gives their life meaning and purpose.
Exploration of American Identity
In Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” (1914), the protagonist George Wrenn embarks on a journey of self-discovery that ultimately leads him to question his own identity as an American. As a timid and unassuming clerk in a New York City firm, Wrenn feels disconnected from the world around him and yearns for adventure and excitement. When he is given the opportunity to travel to Europe for work, he jumps at the chance, hoping to find a sense of purpose and belonging in a foreign land. However, as he navigates the unfamiliar terrain of London and Paris, Wrenn begins to realize that his American identity is not as clear-cut as he once thought. He grapples with questions of class, race, and nationality, and ultimately comes to the realization that his identity is shaped not only by his country of origin, but also by his personal experiences and relationships. Through Wrenn’s journey, Lewis invites readers to reflect on their own sense of identity and the ways in which it is shaped by the world around them.
Relevance to Contemporary Society
Despite being written over a century ago, Sinclair Lewis’ “Our Mr. Wrenn” still holds relevance to contemporary society. The novel explores themes of individualism, social class, and the search for identity, all of which are still prevalent issues in today’s world. The character of Mr. Wrenn, a timid and unassuming clerk, represents the struggles of many individuals in modern society who feel trapped in their mundane lives and yearn for something more. The novel also touches on the idea of the American Dream and the pursuit of happiness, a concept that is still deeply ingrained in our culture. Overall, “Our Mr. Wrenn” serves as a reminder that the human experience is timeless and that the struggles and desires of individuals transcend time and place.