Helpful Score: 1
Fabulous novella. Not only does the main character regret the decisions he's made in his life, but he finds no sympathy from his family, either. He's on the verge of tears throughout the whole story, and you know it's coming, and you know it's going to be heartbreaking.
Helpful Score: 1
Typical Sardonic Saul Bellow style...a quick read.
Well written, but more of a character study than anything else. I expected more, so was disappointed. My first Bellow, so perhaps I don't have a sense of this work as part of the oeuvre yet...
This book set in the mid 30's introduces us to Tommy Wilhelm who in his 40's and is trying to cope with his life of many failures. Tommy believes most of his problems come from the fact that his father has never been able to show him love. He learns to accept love from anyone who is offering, and constantly gets taken advantage of by those he trusts. He finally comes to the conclusion that one must reflect and look at the sins of the past in order to progress into the future. The themes of capitalism, personal relationships, greed, foolishness, life and death are very prevalent and gives the reader a lot to reflect on. I recommend this book because it is very short but has a great message of significance.
Really liked my first Bellow book! I found it hopeful at the end...
