The Way of All Flesh

“‘My boy,’ returned my father, ‘you must not judge by the work, but by the work in connection with the surroundings.’”

Overton’s father tells him that people, like art, can only be evaluated in context. Overton obviously takes his words to heart, as his biography of Ernest includes significant contextual information about Ernest’s family and other influences. Understanding the surroundings can either make something more impressive, as in John’s case, or less impressive, as in George’s case.

“Not long ago a much esteemed writer informed the world that he felt ‘disposed to cry out with delight’ before a figure by Michelangelo. I wonder whether he would feel disposed to cry out before a real Michelangelo, if the critics had decided that it was not genuine, or before a reputed Michelangelo which was really by someone else.”

Here, Overton suggests that most critics, and perhaps people generally, simply parrot others’ opinions instead of thinking for themselves. This observation also sets up a major character arc in the novel. Ernest’s thinking and behavior is initially determined almost entirely by the influence of his parents. By the end, he shows greater ability to think and act independently.

“How little do we know our thoughts—our reflex actions indeed, yes; but our reflex reflections! Man, forsooth, prides himself on his consciousness! We boast that we differ from the winds and waves and falling stones and plants, which grow they know not why, and from the wandering creatures which go up and down after their prey, as we are pleased to say without the help of reason. […] I fancy there is some truth in the view which is being put forward nowadays, that it is our less conscious thoughts and our less conscious actions which mainly mould our lives and the lives of those who spring from us.”

While discussing George’s treatment of his children, Overton describes George as acting unconsciously. Overton suggests that people are not so different from the plants and animals of the natural world, driven by reflex and instinct more than deliberation. The novel, then, serves as a would-be wake up call to examine and challenge both internal and external influences, as Ernest does.