Song meaning of The Hermit and the Wild Woman, and Other Stories (Chap. 7.6) by Edith Wharton

The lyrics of the song "The Hermit and the Wild Woman, and Other Stories (Chap. 7.6)" by Edith Wharton convey a message about sacrifice and the clash between personal and public duty. The protagonist, the Governor, has made a controversial decision to reappoint Fleetwood as Attorney-General despite Fleetwood's involvement in a scandal. The Governor believes that Fleetwood is the best person for the job and that the work they have started together must continue. However, this decision comes at a personal cost to the Governor and his wife, as it means sacrificing their own feelings and reputation.

The song explores the Governor's justification for his decision, presenting the idea that public duty and the needs of the state should take precedence over personal matters. The Governor argues that the private lives of public figures are small in comparison to the responsibilities and impact of their roles. He believes that the public should judge him based on his and Fleetwood's records, rather than succumbing to media sensationalism.

The Governor's decision is seen as a sacrifice, not only for himself and his wife but also for the party and the state. The Governor is willing to face the consequences of his actions and welcomes an investigation into the matter. He believes that the public should have the opportunity to consider how a private calamity may or may not affect a person's public usefulness.

Overall, the lyrics of the song suggest that the Governor believes in the importance of doing what is best for the greater good, even if it means personal sacrifice. It raises questions about the intersection of personal and public responsibilities and highlights the difficulty of balancing the two.