The essay presented by Gilbert Chesterton clearly emphasizes his wit and deep understanding of humanity. Chesterton portrays certain issues that reflect upon society's vices and virtues. Although this work initially comes across as an informal rambling, Chesterton presents his first theme of what one can do while lying in bed in a vivid and picturesque fashion. Playing on the first theme, he then expresses the hypocrisy he bestows upon people who lie in bed. Lastly, the author admonishes the practice of lying in bed for unjustifiable reasons. In all, Chesterton uses a very common theme to demonstrate that an understanding of mankind's habits can be a window to their behavior.
At the commencement of the essay, Chesterton enlightens the readers of the brilliance of what one can do while lying in bed. The author provides a vibrant depiction of painting on a ceiling while lying on one's back, as Michelangelo did, as an example of what a common person can accomplish when his mind is free to create without the burden of limitations. He uses this as a standard to show that much of man's best works have been created at times when earthly restriction
have been removed and allowed man to pursue actions driven by inspiration rather than rules. Although many look down upon the unjustified action of lying in bed because they consider that it exemplifies laziness and lethargy, Chesterton feels that many productive dealings can be accomplished in this matter. Chesterton's convictions are clearly reflected in his hatred of meaningless colors and patterns found in common household items such as wallpaper and carpets. The author firmly believes that if mankind allows himself to lie in bed and contemplate with a relaxed mind, he will be more prone to produce an array of more meaningful creations that appeal to his intellect.
What can be more mundane or routine than getting up in the mourning? This is perhaps why the author selected this most common of all behaviors, to voice his beliefs of the hypocrisy of human morality. He is obsessed with the notion that man's minor actions should be free, flexible, and creative. He reminds us that it is man's principles and ideas that should bear the burden of steadfastness. The hypocrisy lies in that mankind places an overwhelming amount of emphasis on so call
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