Mr. Meeson’s Will by H Rider Haggard

HI-IS & POD. Paperback. NEW. In the novel "Mr Meeson's Will," there is a clash of wills that forms the central conflict of the story. The book can be seen as a combination of a Robinsonade, a genre that focuses on a person's survival and isolation, and a legal drama. The author, H. Rider Haggard, drew inspiration from a well-known anecdote of the time, which was documented in various newspapers. One such newspaper, the London Globe, suggested that Haggard based his book on a previous work by Aubert. However, the Clarence and Richmond Examiner provided a different perspective. According to their account, Haggard attended a gathering where some legal pupils, who had consumed a fair amount of wine, planned to play a prank on an "eminent Chancery lawyer." In a rather ribald context, they proposed a peculiar question - whether a will written on skin would be considered legally binding. The examiner cited this incident as the source of the plot in "Mr Meeson's Will." The story revolves around a marooned man who, in a desperate attempt to rectify his earlier will, tattoos his new will on the back of a woman. This unusual and dramatic twist adds intrigue and suspense to the narrative. The novel explores the legal implications of such a will and delves into the complexities of inheritance and testamentary law. It raises questions about the validity of unconventional wills and the extent to which the law can accommodate unique circumstances. Haggard skillfully weaves these legal intricacies into the broader themes of survival, isolation, and human nature. The protagonist of the story, Mr Meeson, finds himself stranded on a deserted island after a shipwreck. As he grapples with the harsh realities of survival, he becomes increasingly desperate to ensure that his wealth and possessions are distributed according to his wishes. With no access to traditional means of legal documentation, he resorts to the unconventional method of tattooing his will on the back of a woman. This act sets in motion a series of events that test the limits of legality and morality. The woman, whose back now bears the weight of Mr Meeson's will, becomes a central figure in the story. Her role as a living testament raises questions about agency, consent, and the boundaries of personal autonomy. As the plot unfolds, the novel explores the consequences of Mr Meeson's unconventional decision. It delves into the reactions of those involved, including the legal community, who are both intrigued and skeptical of the validity of such a will. The clash between traditional legal norms and the extraordinary circumstances presented in the story creates tension and suspense throughout the narrative. Through "Mr Meeson's Will," Haggard not only entertains readers with a thrilling tale of survival and legal drama but also prompts them to reflect on broader themes of justice, ethics, and the human condition. The novel serves as a reminder that the law is not always equipped to handle every situation and that the complexities of human nature can challenge even the most established legal principles. In conclusion, "Mr Meeson's Will" is a captivating novel that combines elements of a Robinsonade and a legal drama. Inspired by a real-life anecdote, Haggard weaves a tale of survival, isolation, and the clash between conventional legal norms and extraordinary circumstances. The story raises thought-provoking questions about the validity of unconventional wills and the limits of the law. Through its engaging plot and complex characters, the novel invites readers to ponder the intricacies of justice, ethics, and the human experience.