Plot summary, “Call It Sleep” by Henry Roth in 7 Minutes - Book Review
0"Call It Sleep" is a novel written by Henry Roth and first published in 1934. It tells the story of a young boy named David Schearl, an immigrant living in the impoverished Jewish community of New York City's Lower East Side in the early 1900s.
The novel primarily focuses on David's experiences and struggles as he navigates the challenges of adolescence, cultural identity, and family dynamics. David grapples with the tensions between his strict, traditional father and his loving, but often overwhelmed, mother. As he tries to find his place in a new and unfamiliar world, David becomes increasingly aware of the harsh realities of poverty, anti-Semitism, and the complexities of his own family relationships.
"Call It Sleep" delves into David's inner world, providing readers with a deeply introspective and psychological exploration of his thoughts, fears, and dreams. The narrative is known for its vivid and poetic language, rich with imagery and symbolism, as it delves into the inner workings of a young boy's mind.
Roth's novel also captures the cultural and linguistic challenges faced by immigrants, reflecting the diversity and complexity of the Lower East Side community. Through David's experiences, the book examines the tension between assimilation and the preservation of cultural heritage, as well as the difficulties faced by individuals caught between multiple identities.
"Call It Sleep" was initially met with limited success upon its release but gained recognition and critical acclaim in later years. Its honest portrayal of immigrant life, its complex characters, and its poignant exploration of a young boy's journey towards self-discovery have made it a significant work in American literature.
The novel is known for its literary style, its powerful evocation of time and place, and its thematic exploration of identity, family, and the immigrant experience. "Call It Sleep" remains a compelling and thought-provoking read, offering readers a glimpse into the inner life of a young protagonist and the complex social and cultural landscape of early 20th-century America.