Essay Questions

Why is Jerome K. Jerome warning his readers not to look down upon others?

Jerome believes that nothing lasts forever and there is no need for one to feel special than others. The author knows that some people think that they will live forever and that is why they do evil to others. According to Jerome, all is narcissism implying that people must learn to be humble and appreciate the existence of others. For instance, every person will one day regardless of how rich he is. Therefore, people will leave the worldly riches on earth when they die.

What makes some people walk over others when they are pursuing their interests?

In the essays, Jerome indicates that each person has a purpose in this life. People use various means when pursuing their goals. The purpose of living is dependent on each individual. However, the narrator notes that some people use improper ways to attain their goals. There are those who use their power to oppress others without minding since they are focused on achieving their goals. For instance, the rich often use their power to manipulate the poor. Jerome argues that there is a need to respect one another even people have to do everything possible to attain their objectives.

What is the irony of idleness in the Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow?

Idleness is associated with laziness and people do not expect anything good to come out of it. However, it is ironic that Jerome is motivated to do writing because he is idle. He changes the reader's perception of idleness that something good can come out of it. It even sounds more sardonic that the reader finds himself preoccupied with reading the work of an idle man. The primary purpose of Jerome is to let the reader know that every instance in life provides an opportunity.