A. G. Gardiner (1865–1946), whose full name is Alfred George Gardiner, was a famous English essayist and journalist. He was the editor of The Daily News and wrote many essays under the pen name “Alpha of the Plough.” Gardiner is known for his familiar essays, which discuss everyday life, human behaviour, social values, and good manners in a simple and thoughtful style. His essays often carry moral lessons without being preachy.
In the essay “On the Rule of the Road,” A. G. Gardiner explains the true meaning of liberty. He argues that liberty does not mean doing whatever one likes. Instead, real liberty can exist only when people respect others’ rights. Through simple examples from daily life, Gardiner shows that self-control and consideration are essential for a civilised society.
The essay begins with an incident from Petrograd, where a stout old lady walks in the middle of the road, causing danger and confusion. When told to use the pavement, she replies, “I’m going to walk where I like. We’ve got liberty now.” Gardiner points out that the old lady misunderstands liberty. If everyone acted like her, society would fall into chaos. He rightly says, “Individual liberty would have become social anarchy.” This example shows that freedom without limits leads to disorder, not happiness.
Gardiner then explains the rule of the road using the example of a policeman at Piccadilly Circus. When the policeman stops traffic, people may feel irritated and think their freedom is being restricted. However, Gardiner says that the policeman is “the symbol not of tyranny, but of liberty.” By controlling traffic, the policeman ensures safety and order. People accept a small restriction on personal freedom so that everyone can move freely and safely. Thus, limiting liberty actually helps preserve it.
According to Gardiner, liberty is not only a personal right but also a social responsibility. He says, “Liberty is not a personal affair only, but a social contract.” In personal matters that do not affect others—such as clothing, food habits, religion, or personal preferences—people are completely free. However, once our actions disturb others, our freedom must be controlled. Liberty must always be balanced with the liberties of others.
Gardiner uses humorous examples, such as playing a trombone at midnight, to show how personal freedom can disturb others. He explains that while one may enjoy such activities, “my liberty to blow the trombone must not interfere with their liberty to sleep in quiet.” This clearly shows that freedom should never cause inconvenience or harm to others.
Towards the end, Gardiner stresses that civilisation is judged by small daily actions, not by rare acts of heroism. He says, “A reasonable consideration for the rights or feelings of others is the foundation of social conduct.” It is in ordinary behaviour following rules, being polite, and respecting others, that we prove whether we are civilised or uncivilised.
In conclusion, “On the Rule of the Road” teaches that true liberty exists only when individuals act with discipline, responsibility, and consideration for others. Gardiner reminds us that freedom without limits leads to chaos, while freedom guided by respect creates harmony.
ON THE RULE OF THE ROAD – QUIZ
WORKS CITED
Gardiner, A. G. Leaves in the Wind. J. M. Dent & Sons, 1913.
Gardiner, A. G. Pillars of Society. J. M. Dent & Sons, 1914.
Dr Aswathy Aravindakshan is a teacher, bilingual writer and artist with over two decades of experience in teaching English language and literature. She currently serves as Assistant Professor of English at NSS College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Her blog, ashlit.in brings together academic resources, creative writing in Malayalam and English, and visual art. The platform features lecture notes, study materials, poems, reflections, short prose, and a curated collection of her paintings. Through this space, she seeks to foster learning, creativity, and meaningful engagement with literature and the arts.
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