V. V.'s Eyes

V. V.'s Eyes by Henry Sydnor Harrison is a novel that explores themes of social class, ambition, and personal desire. The story contrasts the lives of two distinct social groups: the affluent Heth family and V. Vivian, a doctor from a poorer part of the city who is passionate about social reform. Vivian is critical of the wealthy and the conditions of the working class, particularly factory workers, highlighting the tensions between the privileged and the oppressed. The novel also focuses on Carlisle Heth, the young daughter of the Heth family, who struggles to balance her personal ambitions with the societal expectations placed on her. As she faces pressure from her family and society, Carlisle navigates love and reputation, confronting the limitations and challenges of her social standing. At its core, V. V.'s Eyes is a study of how social norms and class distinctions shape individuals' lives and decisions. It explores the tension between personal aspirations and the expectations of a society that is divided by wealth and status.