What Necessity Knows   By: Lily Dougall (1858-1923)

In "What Necessity Knows" by Lily Dougall, readers are invited into a thought-provoking journey that explores the complex nature of human desires, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of our choices. The story revolves around a group of diverse characters who find themselves connected through a series of events that test their convictions and challenge their beliefs.

Dougall's masterful storytelling captivates readers from the very beginning, painting vivid and multi-dimensional characters whose struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. Each character is faced with choices that force them to confront their core values, displaying the depth of their humanity and the internal conflicts that arise when faced with difficult decisions.

One striking aspect of the novel is how Dougall delves into the question of necessity versus morality. Through a wide range of circumstances, the characters are confronted with situations where what is considered necessary clashes with their own moral compass. This challenging exploration serves as a constant source of tension, prompting readers to reflect on their own perceptions of right and wrong.

The prose is eloquent and engaging, seamlessly weaving together multiple plotlines that converge with increasingly captivating results. The author's attention to detail and skilled character development creates a rich tapestry of interconnected lives, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their journeys.

Another notable aspect is the novel's exploration of societal expectations and gender roles. Dougall fearlessly challenges traditional notions of femininity, offering a refreshing and progressive perspective on women's rights and empowerment. This underlying theme adds another layer of depth and relevance to the story, making it resonate with readers on a deeper level.

While some might argue that the novel's pacing is slow at times, this deliberate approach allows for introspection and contemplation on the part of the reader. It invites us to consider the repercussions of our actions, and how necessity can sometimes blur the lines between right and wrong.

"What Necessity Knows" is a book that will leave readers pondering the complexities of life long after they have turned the final page. Lily Dougall's ability to blend intricate storytelling with thought-provoking themes is a testament to her skill as a writer. This novel is a must-read for those who enjoy stories that challenge their perspectives and leave them with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of human existence.

First Page:

One episode of this story may need a word of explanation. It is reported that while the "Millerite" or Adventist excitement of 1843 was agitating certain parts of North America, in one place at least a little band of white robed people ascended a hill in sure expectation of the Second Advent, and patiently returned to be the laughing stock of their neighbours. This tradition, as I heard it in my childhood, was repeated as if it embodied nothing but eccentricity and absurdity, yet it naturally struck a child's mind with peculiar feelings of awe and pathos. Such an event appeared picturesque matter for a story. It was not easy to deal with; for in setting it, as was necessary, in close relation to the gain getting, marrying and giving in marriage, of the people among whom it might occur, it was difficult to avoid either giving it a poetic emphasis which it would not appear to have in reality or degrading it by that superficial truth often called realism, which belittles men... Continue reading book >>