How does Saul Bellow portray the existential problems in American Society in Seize the Day?

Answer

How does Saul Bellow portray the existential problems in American Society in Seize the Day?

Saul Bellow’s (1915-2005) Seize the Day (1956) is a short novel about one man’s struggle to find meaning in a modern, materialistic world. The novel shows the life of Tommy Wilhelm, a man who feels lost, lonely, and defeated. Through his experiences, Bellow explores the existential problems of American society, problems like the lack of purpose, emotional emptiness, false success, and the search for identity. The novel is not only Wilhelm’s story but also a picture of modern man’s inner crisis.

Loss of Identity and Purpose: In American society, success is often measured by money, fame, and position. Wilhelm, however, has failed in all these things. Once, he left college and went to Hollywood to become a movie actor. But his dream ended in disappointment. Now he is middle-aged, jobless, and separated from his wife. He feels that he has lost control over his own life. This loss of identity is an important existential problem. Wilhelm feels like a stranger in his own world. Through him, Bellow shows how modern society forces people to live by others’ expectations, not by their own true selves.

Loneliness and Emotional Isolation: Wilhelm lives in the same hotel as his father, Dr. Adler. But still feels completely alone. His father is proud, selfish, and unwilling to help. Wilhelm desperately needs his father’s help and says:

“What do I expect? … I expect help!”

But his father does not provide any financial or emotional support. Wilhelm’s wife also only wants money from him. Nobody gives him love or understanding. This emotional isolation makes Wilhelm feel empty inside. Bellow uses this loneliness to show how modern American society has become cold and self-centered. This shows the human need for connection, which existential thinkers say is missing in modern life.

Materialism and False Values: Another major problem in the novel is materialism. Everyone around Wilhelm values money more than emotion or morality. Dr. Adler