David Levintsky is undoubtedly a smart individual. This is evident, assuming he’s a reliable narrator, in his own descriptions of his Talmudic capabilities, his ability to learn “secular” topics rather quickly, and in his successful business ventures. Not only does he demonstrate that he is intellectually capable, but also that he is intellectually driven. Upon hearing that “The Pole” has memorized 500 pages of the Talmud he takes it upon himself, as a sort of mental contest, to do the same. In fact, Talmudic learning in general interested him because of its depth and association with logic.
When David moves to America one of the things he seeks is the intellectual stimulation he has left behind. He often, at least at first, goes to the synagogue to learn, in what seemingly becomes less of a religious practice and more of a nostalgic ritual, one which seems to become increasingly out of place to him in his “New World.” Here other forms of intellectual pursuit appeal to him more. While attempting to make a living for himself, he constantly keeps in mind Matilda’s advice to go to college and become an “educated man.” Sadly, he fails to do so.
Sure, David learns to speak English quite well, and learns some mathematics on the way, but he does not graduate college. He does not make intellect part of his life. He chooses money instead. At the end of the book David states that he envies the “immigrants who have distinguished themselves in science, music, or art…far more than a billionaire.” It becomes blatantly obvious that he was always meant to be an intellectual. However, the harsh, unpredictable, fast-paced nature of New York City forces him to make certain choices he otherwise might not have. He becomes very involved in the moment, in what is presently happening to him, rather than reflect on the big picture and his main goals. David Levintsky ultimately become a different person; an unhappy person.
