Wisdom sometimes emanates from mouths that have starved and been denied the basic pleasures of life, as if fate has been stingy with them in comparison to what it has bestowed upon others, leading to disparities and the capriciousness of destiny.
The title "Daddy Long-Legs" carries a lot of mystery, secrecy, and overall ambiguity. This aligns with the general context of the novel. The title merely alludes to an obscure trait of the character opposite the protagonist, referencing "height" and associating it with a "shadow" to indicate an unknown and unseen figure, whose presence is subtly woven between the lines. Though unknown elements in life can carve out paths we inevitably follow, the author successfully narrates a clear vision of someone from an unknown place setting a specific, clear direction for an orphan named Judy Abbott (her real name being Jerusha). She is the central character of the novel.
The apparent philosophy within the novel reflects many of life's meanings we experience, starting from the intricate issue of whether we are controlled by fate or have free will, to the dilemma that striving doesn't guarantee reaching the desired destination. There's a predetermined design that operates in a miraculous way, incomprehensible to both the close and distant observer.
The author narrates the story of Judy Abbott, originally Jerusha but disliking her name, thus opting for "Judy". An orphan, she grew up in an orphanage after losing her parents at a young age. Subjected to the melancholy of the place and the silence of its walls, she undertook numerous strenuous tasks there, especially since she was the eldest among the orphans. Judy was known to be a lively, passionate girl with a talent for creative writing. One day, the orphanage's matron informs her that a wealthy individual, having read her writings, has decided to send her to college, covering all her expenses on the condition that she writes to him monthly without expecting any replies.
Judy had no information about this benefactor. She only saw him from behind as he was leaving the orphanage, noticing his tall stature. Hence, she coined the term "Daddy Long-Legs" for him, knowing nothing about his appearance except his shadow.
At her university, Judy Abbott excels and hones her writing and expressive skills. She continues to update Daddy Long-Legs about her life, mentioning her friends. During summer vacation, she joins her friend Julia at her countryside farm and meets Julia's uncle, Mr. Jervis Pendleton, engaging in discussions to understand her mindset.
Meetings between Judy Abbott and Jervis Pendleton continue, leading to mutual admiration and love. Jervis eventually proposes to Judy, and after some hesitation, she accepts. She ultimately discovers that Jervis Pendleton is, in fact, Daddy Long-Legs.
Another philosophical theme of the novel poses challenging questions: Can we distinguish between reality and dream simply by envisioning it? Should we be cautious about our dreams since they might come true with all their pitfalls, making us vehemently reject them due to our inability to adapt? If so, should we refrain from dreaming and let life flow with its preordained events, whether they bring joy or sorrow?
The novel is message-driven. Each message carries a meaning, and each idea has a purpose. Do you walk towards your destiny, or let your steps sketch out your dream?
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