American life and society as depicted in the novel Seize the Day
Seize the Day is a notable literary work by Saul Bellow. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Seize the Day.
Answer
Write a note on American life and society as depicted in the novel “Seize the Day.”
Or Saul Bellow’s attitude toward contemporary American Society.
“Seize the Day,” published in 1956, is a novel by Saul Bellow (1915-2005). In this novel, Bellow profoundly explores American life and society in the 20th century. This iconic novel focuses on the struggles of the main character, Tommy Wilhelm. Here, we can trace the following points on American life and society as depicted in the novel.
Materialism: The novel portrays the general materialistic mindset of American society. Wilhelm, the protagonist, is constantly pursuing financial success and living up to societal expectations. His desire to succeed in the stock market represents the materialistic mindset of the people. Again, Dr. Adler criticizes Wilhelm’s lack of financial stability, which reflects the materialistic values of the time.
Urban Isolation: The story is set in New York City. This setting highlights the isolation that can accompany urban living. Despite being surrounded by people, Wilhelm feels disconnected and alienated. Wilhelm’s isolation is evident in his interactions with strangers on the street, his wife, and even his own father.
The American Dream: Tommy is financially unstable. He also pursues the idea of getting to the “American Dream” and becoming wealthy. Tamkin manipulates Wilhem by encouraging him to pursue the American dream.
Only the present is real – the here-and-now. Seize the day.
Wilhelm foolishly invests his last seven hundred dollars. Dr. Tamkin cheats on him. Wilhelm is broken inside and out of work.
Father-Son Relationship: The strained relationship between Wilhelm and his father, Dr. Adler, reflects American society. Tommy’s father, Dr. Adler, is a renowned doctor. He is set in stark contrast with Tommy Wilhelm, who is an utter failure. We find a lack of emotional connection between the father and son. Dr. Adler doesn’t truly understand his son, and his disapproval of Wilhelm’s choices deepens their divide. Wilhelm says,
Tamkin… tries to give me a hand, whereas Dad doesn’t want to be disturbed.
Tommy Wilhelm desperately needs his father’s help