SPOILERS!
Just finished this book and the story — particularly the ending — has been swirling around my head. I’d love to hear other people’s thoughts.
I’ve been trying to grasp the “indigenous American berserk,” but what I keep dwelling on is that there is no guarantees in life. The Swede had everything, but what did he really have? He could have every advantage, play his cards right, and yet produce the angriest child in America, a total nihilist.
Is Roth commenting on the byproduct of the post-WW2 affluence and stability, this rot, this violence and always seethes beneath the surface? Is he condemning The Swede for facilitating this? Is Jerry, his little brother, correct that The Swede brought this on himself by comprising himself in pursuit of perfection?
And who is Rita Cohen? Does anybody think Roth resolves this?
I’ve only read a few other Roth novels (So i married a communist, portnoys complaint, plot against america), any recommendations for others?
by grapeswisher420