'Exception' Summary

In Ellis Parker Butler's 'An Exception,' we meet a man who is labeled as an 'exception' due to his unusual preferences and behavior. He dislikes conventional activities like attending dances and prefers solitude and his own company. This unconventional lifestyle sets him apart from society, which views him as an oddity. The story humorously explores how society reacts to this perceived 'exception,' highlighting the absurdity of rigid social expectations and the pressure to conform. The man's simple desire to be different and live life on his own terms is met with confusion and disapproval from those around him, leading to unexpected and humorous situations. Through the man's experiences, Butler satirizes the societal obsession with conformity and the consequences of deviating from established norms, ultimately showcasing the importance of individuality and embracing difference.