'Charge It': Keeping Up With Harry

by Irving Bacheller

"Charge It" by Irving Bacheller is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story delves into the themes of extravagant living and social pretensions through the lens of its protagonist, Harry, as he navigates his affluent lifestyle with a mix of humor and absurdity. Supported by the Honorable Socrates Potter, Harry's escapades highlight the pitfalls of materialism and the social pressures of maintaining an appearance of wealth. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Harry and Socrates as they rush through a series of chaotic shopping activities, where Harry frequently declares, “Charge it,” emphasizing a carefree attitude toward spending that defines his character. The opening depicts a series of frantic events involving their car journey, accidents, and near-misses that illustrate Harry's reckless pursuit of social engagements, particularly a bridge party. Socrates, as a more grounded observer, articulates the contrasts between their extravagant lifestyle and the moral implications of their actions, setting the stage for the exploration of personal and societal values intertwined with humor and irony.