The Cords of Vanity: A Comedy of Shirking
The Cords of Vanity: A Comedy of Shirking is a novel by James Branch Cabell, likely written in the early 20th century. It follows Robert Etheridge Townsend, a young man who avoids life's responsibilities through whimsical introspection and romantic escapades, particularly with Stella Musgrave. The narrative offers a playful and ironic commentary on youth, love, and societal expectations, exploring Townsend's struggle to balance his carefree desires with the burdens of adulthood. Cabell's work is notable for its rich characterizations and critique of social norms.
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“...because intelligent persons do not attempt to keep abreast with modern fiction. It is probably ascribable to the fact that they enjoy being intelligent, and wish to remain so.””
— James Branch Cabell
“And thus, the Fairy leading, they came at last to a tall hedge wherein were a hundred wickets, all being closed; and those who had passed the Foolish Prince disputed before the hedge and measured the hundred wickets with thirty-nine articles and with a variety of instruments, and each man entered at his chosen wicket, and a butterfly went before him; but no man returned into the open country.””
— James Branch Cabell
