The Doctor's Red Lamp: A Book of Short Stories Concerning the Doctor's Daily Life

"The Doctor's Red Lamp" by Charles Wells Moulton is a collection of short stories concerning the daily lives of doctors, written in the early 20th century. The stories featured in this volume illuminate various episodes in the lives of physicians and explore their interactions with patients, families, and the communities they serve. The opening of the collection introduces a character named Abe Dodge, a man afflicted by cross-eyedness, juxtaposed with his more charismatic brother, Ephe. The narrative portrays Abe's struggles with his appearance, the societal ridicule he faces, and culminates in a pivotal moment when a doctor, Daniel Brainard, arrives to perform an operation to correct Abe's vision. This act of medical intervention not only transforms Abe's life but also sets the stage for an exploration of themes surrounding medical compassion, familial relationships, and the pursuit of acceptance. The overall tone mixes humor with heartfelt emotion, engaging the reader in the profound impact a doctor can have on individual lives and society at large.