Each time that I have sat down and read, this novel has left me feeling depressed. (Is that not what constitutes a “good” book?) From the beginning of the novel, the author accurately conveys and expands upon the intrinsic conflict deep within David Levinsky. In this case, he is both the protagonist and antagonist in his own life story, albeit fictitious. The author tells how Levinsky always seems to over-analyze his situations and experiences, especially when it involves a woman. Ultimately, however, this leaves him confused, depressed, and lonely; and, Levinsky continues his search for lasting happiness.
I find this particularly interesting in view of the “American Dream,” especially in relation to New York City. First off, the novel depicts the thrill of America as being on everyone’s speech in Antomir. It is only natural for Levinsky to be drawn to this idea of easier, abundant prosperity given his age, upbringing, and eventual loss of his mother; Matilda’s puzzling response to him further encourages Levinsky to pursue an entirely new life in America, as well. Only after reading the end of the novel do I realize that the author foreshadows Levinsky’s outcome when the townspeople report that some of their acquaintances who had moved to America write that they wish they had not come here. What many immigrants fail to realize upon coming to America is that the ups and downs of life do not disappear. In New York City, there is constantly so much occurring that an individual can continue to evade reality (disappointment, hurt, confusion, uncertainty) by pursuing a new job, hobby, et cetera. However, this eventually catches up with individuals and leaves them reflecting on their past decisions, contemplating where they went wrong.
Particularly striking is Levinsky’s confession in the last paragraph of the novel where he states, “I cannot escape from my old self. My past and my present do not comport well.” Perhaps this is due to his initial confusion upon leaving his homeland of Russia, including his confusion concerning God and love, some of which is incredibly understandable, especially after tragically losing his mother and never discovering the details of her death. I wonder, however, if anyone ever told Levinsky the adage, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.”
