To Him That Hath

by Leroy Scott

“To Him That Hath” by Leroy Scott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around David Aldrich, a struggling author who faces profound grief and moral dilemmas following the death of his close friend, Reverend Philip Morton. The narrative dives deep into themes of loss, guilt, and the societal expectations surrounding success and failure, setting the stage for David's internal conflict as he grapples with his sense of worth and responsibility. At the start of the book, David is thrust into a whirlwind of emotions upon receiving news of Morton's unexpected death. Overwhelmed by grief, he reflects on his friendship with Morton and the impact his mentor had on the community through his humanitarian efforts. As David prepares for the funeral, he is confronted not only with the loss of a dear friend but also with the stark reality of their contrasting lives—Morton as a respected and beloved figure, and himself as a struggling writer. The opening chapters establish a poignant tone, exploring David's feelings of inadequacy and foreshadowing the moral choices he will have to make in the face of mortality and legacy.