Justify the Title of the Novel “Seize the Day.”

Answer

Justify the title of the novel “Seize the Day.” [NU: 2016, 20] ★★★

Saul Bellow’s (1915-2005) novel “Seize the Day” (1956) shows one important day in the life of Tommy Wilhelm, a man full of problems and disappointments. The title of the novel comes from the Latin words Carpe Diem, meaning “seize the day” or “make the best use of today.” This title sounds hopeful, but it becomes ironic in the novel. Instead of finding success or happiness, Wilhelm faces failures, pressure, and deep sadness. We will take a closer look at the title below.

Tommy Wilhelm’s Struggles and Irony: In the novel, Tommy Wilhelm’s life is full of problems. He has lost his job. He is separated from his wife. But he still needs to bear the cost of the family. He is in deep financial trouble. Wilhelm lives in a hotel with old, retired people. This shows how out of place and lonely he feels. Wilhelm always fights with his fears and pressures. His father, Dr. Adler, does not help him. Wilhelm learns the hard way that:

“The money makes the difference.”

Tommy Wilhelm understands that money has created distance between him and his father. Dr. Adler sees him as a failure who should solve his own problems. So, the title “Seize the Day” becomes ironic because Wilhelm cannot take control of his life.

Urgency and Pressure: The title also shows the urgency and pressure Tommy Wilhelm feels. Wilhelm feels the urgency and pressure that he must seize the day and improve his financial conditions. Otherwise, he might not survive. The novel takes place in one single day. But on this day, Wilhelm feels many emotions, realizations, and struggles. He is desperate to find some hope and relief, either by getting money through Dr. Tamkin’s investment advice or by getting sympathy from his father. At 44 years old, separated from his family, Wilhelm knows time is running out for him. The narrator says,

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