My summer reading, to this point, has been two works by Sinclair Lewis. Both were controversial for their time (1920′s). Yet each is an essay on human nature from exactly opposite viewpoints.

“Main Street” reminds us of our small, rural town beginnings and life. Lewis discusses provincial behaviors of locals and the attitude of “outsiders”.

“Here, a stranger is taken in if he is correct, if he likes hunting and motoring and God and our Senator”. It’s a place where the ruling class pays a penalty as tribal rulers because their subjects watch them every minute.

“Babbitt”, on the other hand, is the quintessential City Man who realizes his life is the City Club, Boosters, and every other conservative group that comes to town. Having the proper house, proper wife, proper children and being a respectable businessman.

The rural community accepts the City Girl in “Main Street” when she stops trying to change things. The City Boy appreciates his fellow city leaders when his rebellion results in being left out of group events, city politics and community leadership.

Rural america should read “Babbitt” to understand those that are moving there. City folks that move to Rural America should read “Main Street”. It may not change things but should provide some food for thought.