My Man Jeeves

While reading one article written by my favourite Marathi humourist P.L. Deshpande, I was quick to notice one name he mentioned. He mentioned that his favourite humourist was P.G. Wodehouse. Before that, I didn't know anything about him, but my great dear PuLa introduced him to me. One day while roaming through my college library (having the best time of that day), I suddenly saw this book My Man Jeeves written by PG Wodehouse. Without any second thought,I picked it up and by Jove, that was the best shot ever! 

My Man Jeeves is a collection of short stories by P. G. Wodehouse, first published in the United Kingdom in May 1919 by George Newnes. Of the eight stories in the collection, half feature the popular characters Jeeves and Bertie Wooster, while the others concern Reggie Pepper, an early prototype for Bertie Wooster. Bertie belongs to an aristocratic family from London, who has a very easy- to- go approach towards his life, who likes to worry less and enjoy more. His aunt has sent him to New York for a particular task. Needless to say, he is more comfortable in New York having the best time of life, without concerning much about an actual task. Here he makes many new friends, because of whom he finds himself in the middle of unwanted, unexpected embarassing moments. But there is one person, who has an answer for any question, solution of any silly problem. That person is Jeeves, his loyal servant. But don't visualise that picture of a servant ,who is being meek, too humble ! This Jeeves is extremely sharp, who has specific ideas about how his master should dress up, whether he should have a moustache or not! But let me admit, he is loyal and compassionate towards his master. He will bring his master safely out from situation, will do anything for his comfort and happiness. In four stories, this pair of Bertie and Jeeves will entertain you the most, though other two are remarkably appealing. 

As it was a first ever experience of reading Wodehouse, I find his homour genial, healthy, appealing. Though it satirizes an aristocratic class to some extent, it does not have an element of abuse or insult added to it. Maybe these stories will not make you laugh hysterically, but they will bring a constant smile on your face the whole time. Moreover, it is written in a simple understandable style, which makes it even more appealing. Surely Wodehouse will be my companion for a long time, because I hear Jeeves features in next 11 novels! Long way to go, but I am already too excited! I'll recommend it anyone who can appreciate such a good sense of humour, who is looking for something relaxing for next read! Jeeves is there for you!

-Neha Jyoti Pradip Joshi

(08/12/2022)