The cottage was a hunting lodge--a cabin lacking a single flourish that turned it from a functional building into a vacation residence. It was off-season, but these places often did double-duty as a "getaway from the kids and the missus" refuge for men. I have to admit, I don't get that. Shouldn't you be able to take some time to yourself without lying about "going hunting" for the weekend? Maybe my expectations for honesty are too high. I've been told that before.
The story presents a hunting lodge that serves as a simple, utilitarian cabin rather than a comfortable vacation home. Despite its ruggedness, it's recognized that such places often serve as retreats for men looking to escape their family responsibilities. The author expresses skepticism about this tradition, questioning why some men feel the need to disguise their desire for solitude as a hunting trip.
This reflective viewpoint highlights a broader concern about honesty and personal freedom. The author wonders if such evasions are necessary for men to take time for themselves, implying a societal pressure to conform to certain roles. The narrative encourages readers to consider whether self-care can exist without the need for deceit.