Photo by Mark Plötz
In The Streamlined Locomotive by Stephen Lloyd Auslender, a spoiled executive finds love and prepares for war in the unlikeliest of places.
The Streamlined Locomotive
It’s the early 1940s, and the United States of America has been preparing itself to enter the stage and become involved in World War II. Meanwhile, the president of the Hawgwaller & Western Railroad Company, Aloysius, aspires to become one of the richest men in the Union.
To do this, he plans to transform his stagnant company into a powerhouse by constructing a streamlined locomotive and having it be his flagship passenger train! Assisting him is the actual protagonist of the novel, Theopolis P. Bezelbottom, a handsome rogue who is more attuned to womanizing and philandering rather than the trials and tribulations of industry and the corporate world.
Yet, he must do what he must do and attempt to secure the locomotive for his uncle, which leads him down a strange and comical adventure. There’s blackmail, the FBI, various femme fatales, and a somewhat intriguing run-in with the ambassador of the obscure European country of Vulgaria.
Throughout his journey, Theo gets himself entangled with a colorful gallery of people, from a number of cranks and eccentrics to a bulky but voluptuous woman who can carry him over the shoulder like he is just a sack of flour.

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Having lived his life with enough confidence and bluster, he finds himself biting off more than he can chew, landing in one mess after another, each more embarrassing than the last. What will this spoiled executive do?
Spoiled Executive Finds Love
While this article won’t get into too much detail about Theo’s love life, it’s still entertaining to explore the general love life of a spoiled executive.
Now, being “spoiled,” as it were, presents unique challenges in one’s quest for love. While there are some benefits–large ones–to being a member of the privileged class, however low in the rung you might be, the reality is quite often more nuanced than what is advertised.
This is especially the case in their personal interrelationships.
Being much more accustomed to having everything served on a silver platter, spoiled individuals struggle deeply with the more-or-less equal dynamics of healthy relationships.
How can one find love when one is used to holding a certain level of comfort and control?
Growing from Being A Spoiled Brat
If a privileged character wants to find genuine romance, the first thing they need to do is gain a certain level of self-awareness. Having the ability to recognize that one’s attitudes and mannerisms–especially the ones they cannot separate from their upbringing and lifestyle–are negatively affecting their expectations of any relationship is pivotal.
Are you used to instant gratification? Do you struggle to compromise with anyone? Honest reflection can pave the way for personal growth.

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- Perhaps a therapist or counselor specializing in relationship dynamics could provide valuable insights.
Next, don’t be bothered when you are called “privileged” or “spoiled.” Those are not permanent traits. They can be changed. Instead of basing your personality around your background, focus on the things that are not solely tied to it. Foster more positive qualities. Be highly driven and learn how to network. But don’t also turn away from your background. You were born lucky, and it’s okay to accept that.
- These qualities, when channeled appropriately, can be attractive to potential partners.
The dating game itself requires a shift in perspective. While extravagant dates and gifts might seem like the natural course of action in the world of the rich, a focus on genuine connection is paramount if you want a genuine relationship. A shared experience, a thoughtful conversation, or a simple gesture of kindness can be far more impactful than a lavish display of wealth. Be open to dating outside your usual social circles.
- You might be surprised by the connections you forge with people from different backgrounds and lifestyles.
Finally, remember that love is a two-way street. It’s not about finding someone who caters to your every whim but rather someone who complements you, challenge you to grow, and shares your values. True love isn’t bought or demanded; it’s earned through mutual respect, understanding, and a willingness to compromise.
- After all, you want a partner, not a servant.
So, ditch the entitlement, embrace vulnerability, and be open to the possibility that love might just be waiting around the corner, even if it doesn’t arrive in a gift-wrapped box.