💼 Keeping Up With the Joneses: High Society Shenanigans 🏡
Attempting to live in the style of one’s more affluent neighbors or acquaintances. The term was coined by Arthur R. (“Pop”) Momand, a cartoonist who used it as the title for a series run in the New York Globe from 1913, and in other papers as well, for several decades. Momand based the series on his own experiences as a newly wed young artist living in an affluent New York suburb on a limited salary. Although he and the series are scarcely remembered, the title caught on and by mid-century was a cliché.
Similar Terms, Expressions, and Idioms:
- Keeping up appearances
- Living beyond one’s means
- Following the herd
- Chasing the Joneses
- The grass is always greener on the other side
- Competitive conspicuous consumption
Synonyms:
- Materialism
- Consumerism
Antonyms:
- Frugality
- Asceticism
- Simplicity
Humor-Filled Quotes:
“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” — Will Rogers
“The trouble with the Joneses is, we don’t know what debt they’re in!” — Anonymous
Proverbs:
“Cut your coat according to your cloth.” — Proverb advocating for living within one’s means.
“A penny saved is a penny earned.” — Emphasizes frugality.
Recommended Literature and Media:
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald — Classic novel depicting the excesses of wealth and the perils of trying to keep up.
- The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe — Modern paralleling of wealth, social status, and misconception of success.
- Fight Club (1999) — Cult film that peels back the layers on consumerism and societal pressure.
Quizzes:
In a world of ever-increasing social competition and material envy, it’s essential to remember that true contentment doesn’t come from matching or outpacing others’ lifestyles but from embracing one’s unique journey. Until next time, stay wise, witty, and wonderfully yourself.
