On Saying Please: An Analysis
The essay On Saying Please by A. G. Gardiner is one of the finest examples of his ability to combine moral reflection with engaging storytelling. Gardiner, who was a famous English essayist, often wrote under the pen name “Alpha of the Plough.” In this essay, he draws attention to the importance of small courtesies in daily life, especially the habit of saying “please” and “thank you.” Through his simple yet thoughtful observations, he highlights how politeness and good manners can have a deep impact on social harmony. The essay remains relevant even today because it teaches lessons about respect, dignity, and the necessity of kindness in human interaction.
Gardiner begins the essay with a simple anecdote about a liftman in London who is asked by a passenger to take him to a floor. The passenger refuses to use the word “please” while giving the instruction, and the liftman feels so insulted that he reacts violently. This incident allows Gardiner to reflect on the nature of courtesy and the consequences of ignoring it. He makes it clear that while law can protect a person from physical assault, it cannot enforce politeness. No policeman can punish rudeness, and no court can compel an individual to use kind words. The liftman’s anger, therefore, arises from a violation of something that law cannot regulate, which is respect in social conduct.
The central argument of the essay lies in Gardiner’s belief that good manners are a social necessity because they create goodwill and prevent conflict. He observes that words such as “please” and “thank you” are not mere ornaments of speech but vital expressions of consideration for others. By using these simple courtesies, individuals acknowledge the dignity of the people they interact with. Gardiner points out that human beings live in a society where cooperation and respect are essential, and politeness makes this possible without the need for constant legal enforcement.
Gardiner also discusses the imbalance between what law can achieve and what social courtesy accomplishes. The law can prevent crimes like theft or assault, but it cannot prevent bad manners. A man may remain within the law and still make life unpleasant for others by being rude, arrogant, or dismissive. Gardiner argues that society depends on unwritten codes of behavior that demand politeness, for without them human interaction would become intolerable. He gives examples of small acts of civility, such as yielding space in a crowded area, greeting strangers politely, or showing patience during disagreements, all of which create harmony.
The essay further emphasizes that politeness is not an artificial performance but a genuine recognition of another person’s worth. Gardiner explains that when someone says “please,” he or she is not simply uttering a word but is acknowledging the humanity of the person being addressed. Similarly, when someone says “thank you,” it is an expression of gratitude that strengthens bonds of respect. Politeness therefore becomes a moral act because it reflects humility, kindness, and self-control.
Gardiner’s reflections also show his humanistic outlook. He does not present politeness as a matter of social fashion but as a necessity for civilized life. His anecdotal style, combined with logical reasoning, makes the essay both entertaining and instructive. By referring to the liftman’s anger, he illustrates how rudeness can provoke resentment and how politeness could have prevented conflict. His moral is clear: words cost nothing, yet their absence can create bitterness while their presence can spread goodwill.
The style of Gardiner in this essay is marked by simplicity and clarity. He uses everyday incidents and common examples to convey profound truths about human behavior. His conversational tone makes the reader feel personally addressed, and his reasoning appeals to both intellect and emotion. Unlike abstract philosophical arguments, his essay uses humor, anecdote, and moral reflection to deliver a practical lesson. The balance between narrative and reflection keeps the reader engaged while also provoking thought.
The essay also contains an implicit criticism of modern society, where people often ignore small courtesies in their rush for efficiency and self-interest. Gardiner suggests that without politeness, life becomes mechanical and harsh. He insists that civilization is not measured by wealth or power but by the quality of human relationships. Politeness, therefore, becomes a mark of true civilization because it respects the dignity of every individual regardless of class or status.
The lasting significance of On Saying Please lies in its timeless moral message. Even though it was written in the early twentieth century, its lesson remains vital in contemporary society, where rapid communication, urban life, and competitive environments often diminish civility. The essay reminds readers that kindness and politeness are not trivial but essential for peaceful coexistence. Every generation can learn from Gardiner’s insight that a single word spoken with courtesy can prevent conflict and create goodwill.
In conclusion, On Saying Please by A. G. Gardiner is not just an essay about manners but a reflection on the values that hold society together. Through the example of the liftman and the rude passenger, Gardiner shows that politeness cannot be enforced by law but must be cultivated by individuals as a moral duty. His analysis of courtesy demonstrates its importance in preserving human dignity, preventing conflict, and enriching daily life. The essay continues to inspire readers because it teaches that true civilization is measured by simple acts of kindness. Gardiner’s message remains universal: politeness costs nothing but it adds immeasurable value to human life.