# The Lees of Happiness explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

## What happens

The story explores the lives of a couple, likely the Lees, and their pursuit of happiness amidst the complexities of love, wealth, and societal expectations, ultimately revealing the illusions and disillusionments that accompany their journey.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Romantic Illusion

The Curtains' marriage is tested by illness, revealing the gap between romantic ideals and harsh realities.

### Memory and Loss

Roxanne's memories of happier times contrast with her present duties, emphasizing the pain of lost happiness.

## Character check-ins

### Jeffrey Curtain

Central character in the story, whose paralysis and marriage to Roxanne highlight themes of love and loss.

### Roxanne Curtain

Devoted wife who tends to her paralyzed husband, embodying sacrifice and the burdens of care.

## Key lines

> The Lees of Happiness

The remnants or dregs of happiness left after the initial joy has faded.

_The title itself suggests a theme of diminished or residual happiness._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_16_se/chapters/the-lees-of-happiness
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_16_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_16_se/chapters