Cheerful—By Request

by Edna Ferber

"Cheerful—By Request" by Edna Ferber is a novel written during the late 1910s. The story primarily revolves around Josie Fifer, a struggling actress-turned-costume keeper in a theatrical warehouse, navigating her complex life in the doldrums of the New York theater scene. The narrative emphasizes the stark contrast between the grim realities of theater production and the author’s desire for a more uplifting tale in a post-war society. The opening portion introduces readers to the world of Josie Fifer, who is entrenched in the behind-the-scenes aspect of theater, managing the costumes of failed productions. The dialogue sets a tone of discontent with the prevailing gloomy and "realistic" narratives common at the time. Josie is depicted with a sharp wit and a somewhat jaded outlook, having faced years of disappointment and hardship within the industry. Through a series of vignettes, we see her reflections on her past aspirations, her current position, and her interactions with others, including Sid Hahn, a prominent theatrical manager. The opening establishes a pitch for a "cheerful" story, hinting at Josie's desire for both recognition and a more hopeful narrative amidst the tragedy she finds herself surrounded by.