In his novel Cocksure, Mordecai Richler explores the world of British publishing in the 1960s. The book is a satirical take on the industry, with a cast of characters ranging from struggling writers to high-powered editors. Richler’s sharp wit and keen observations make for a compelling read, and his insights into the publishing world are as relevant today as they were over 50 years ago. In this comprehensive literary analysis, we will delve into the themes, characters, and style of Cocksure, examining how Richler’s work continues to resonate with readers today.
Background Information
Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure (1968) is a satirical novel that explores the world of publishing and politics in London during the 1960s. Richler, a Canadian author, was known for his sharp wit and biting social commentary, and Cocksure is no exception. The novel follows a group of characters as they navigate the cutthroat world of publishing, where success is often determined by who you know rather than what you write. Richler’s portrayal of the publishing industry is both humorous and scathing, highlighting the absurdity of the industry’s obsession with trends and fads. Additionally, the novel touches on themes of identity, masculinity, and power, making it a complex and thought-provoking read. Overall, Cocksure is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, satire, or the publishing industry.
Plot Summary
In “Cocksure,” Mordecai Richler tells the story of a group of British journalists who travel to a fictional African country called Azania to cover its independence from British rule. The novel is set in the 1960s and explores themes of colonialism, racism, and cultural clashes. The main character, Jake, is a womanizing journalist who is determined to make a name for himself in the industry. Along with his colleagues, he navigates the complexities of Azanian politics and culture while also dealing with personal issues such as infidelity and alcoholism. As the journalists become more involved in the country’s affairs, they begin to question their own motives and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. The novel culminates in a dramatic and unexpected turn of events that forces the characters to confront their own biases and prejudices. “Cocksure” is a satirical and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the legacy of colonialism and the challenges of cultural exchange.
Main Characters
The main characters in Cocksure are a group of young, ambitious journalists working for a London-based magazine called The Mammoth. The protagonist, Jake Berman, is a brash and confident American who has come to London to make a name for himself in the world of journalism. He is joined by his friend and fellow journalist, Sammy, who is more reserved and cautious than Jake. The two of them are constantly competing with each other, both professionally and romantically, as they try to climb the ladder of success at The Mammoth. Other key characters include the magazine’s editor, Harry, who is struggling to keep the publication afloat amidst financial difficulties, and a group of eccentric writers and artists who frequent the magazine’s offices. Through these characters, Richler explores themes of ambition, competition, and the cutthroat world of journalism in the 1960s.
Themes and Motifs
One of the prominent themes in Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure is the idea of masculinity and its various manifestations. The novel explores the different ways in which men try to assert their dominance and power, whether it be through sexual conquests, physical strength, or financial success. Richler also delves into the complexities of male relationships, particularly the dynamics between friends and rivals. Another recurring motif in the novel is the notion of authenticity and the search for genuine experiences in a world that is increasingly artificial and superficial. This is exemplified through the characters’ attempts to find meaning and purpose in their lives, whether it be through artistic expression or political activism. Overall, Cocksure is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, and Richler’s masterful use of themes and motifs adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
Social Commentary
Mordecai Richler’s novel “Cocksure” is a scathing social commentary on the excesses and absurdities of the Swinging Sixties. Set in London, the novel follows a group of Canadian journalists as they navigate the world of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Richler’s biting wit and keen observations expose the hypocrisy and shallowness of the era’s counterculture movement. Through his characters, he skewers everything from the fashion industry to the music scene to the political establishment. “Cocksure” is a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural and social history of the 1960s.
Use of Symbolism
In his novel Cocksure (1968), Mordecai Richler employs the use of symbolism to convey deeper meanings and themes throughout the story. One example of this is the recurring image of the cockerel, which serves as a symbol for masculinity and sexual prowess. The cockerel is a dominant figure in the novel, appearing on the cover and in various scenes throughout the story. Richler uses this symbol to comment on the hyper-masculine culture of the 1960s and the ways in which men are expected to assert their dominance and sexual prowess. Additionally, the cockerel serves as a metaphor for the characters’ own cocksure attitudes and overconfidence, which ultimately leads to their downfall. Through the use of symbolism, Richler is able to explore complex themes and ideas in a way that is both subtle and impactful.
Narrative Techniques
One of the most notable narrative techniques used in Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure is the use of multiple perspectives. The novel is told from the point of view of various characters, each with their own unique voice and perspective on the events that unfold. This allows for a more nuanced and complex portrayal of the story, as readers are able to see the same events from different angles and understand the motivations and thoughts of each character involved. Additionally, Richler employs a non-linear narrative structure, jumping back and forth in time to reveal key moments in each character’s past that inform their present actions and decisions. This technique adds depth and complexity to the story, as readers are able to piece together the various threads of the narrative and gain a more complete understanding of the characters and their motivations. Overall, Richler’s use of multiple perspectives and non-linear narrative structure in Cocksure make for a rich and engaging reading experience.
Richler’s Writing Style
Mordecai Richler’s writing style in Cocksure (1968) is characterized by his sharp wit, satirical tone, and use of colloquial language. Richler’s writing is often described as irreverent and humorous, with a keen eye for the absurdities of human behavior. He employs a range of literary techniques, including irony, sarcasm, and parody, to skewer the pretensions of his characters and the society they inhabit. Richler’s prose is also notable for its vivid descriptions and attention to detail, which bring his characters and settings to life on the page. Overall, Richler’s writing style in Cocksure is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the social and cultural issues of his time.
Historical Context
In order to fully understand Mordecai Richler’s novel Cocksure, it is important to consider the historical context in which it was written. The novel was published in 1968, a time of great social and political upheaval in both Canada and the world at large. The 1960s were marked by the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the rise of counterculture movements such as the hippies. In Canada, the Quiet Revolution was underway in Quebec, and the country was grappling with issues of national identity and bilingualism.
Against this backdrop, Richler’s novel can be seen as a satirical commentary on the excesses and absurdities of the era. The novel is set in London, England, and follows a group of Canadian expatriates as they navigate the world of publishing and politics. Through their various misadventures, Richler skewers the pretensions and hypocrisies of the literary and political establishments, while also exploring themes of identity, masculinity, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Overall, the historical context of the 1960s is crucial to understanding the themes and tone of Cocksure. Richler’s novel can be seen as a reflection of the cultural and political climate of the time, and a commentary on the challenges and contradictions of modern life.
Reception and Criticism
Upon its release in 1968, Cocksure received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised Richler’s satirical wit and sharp observations of the publishing industry, while others criticized the novel for its explicit language and sexual content. The New York Times Book Review called it “a hilarious and biting satire,” while The Guardian deemed it “a vulgar and tasteless work.”
Despite the mixed reception, Cocksure has endured as a classic of Canadian literature and a testament to Richler’s talent as a writer. In recent years, the novel has been re-evaluated by critics and scholars, who have praised its relevance to contemporary issues such as the #MeToo movement and the power dynamics of the entertainment industry.
Overall, Cocksure remains a provocative and entertaining read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world of publishing and the human condition.
Comparisons to Other Works
In comparison to other works by Mordecai Richler, Cocksure stands out as a unique and daring novel. While his earlier works, such as The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz and Son of a Smaller Hero, focused on the struggles of Jewish characters in Montreal, Cocksure takes a different approach. Set in London during the swinging sixties, the novel explores the lives of a group of young, ambitious journalists as they navigate the world of tabloid journalism and sexual liberation.
Richler’s use of satire and wit is also more pronounced in Cocksure than in his previous works. The novel is filled with sharp commentary on the media, politics, and society at large. The characters are flawed and often unlikeable, but their flaws are what make them so compelling.
In comparison to other works of literature from the same time period, Cocksure is a refreshing departure from the more serious and introspective novels of the era. It is a raucous and irreverent romp through the world of journalism and sex, and it is a testament to Richler’s skill as a writer that he is able to make such a seemingly shallow subject matter so engaging and thought-provoking.
Gender Roles and Relationships
In Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), gender roles and relationships are explored through the lens of the entertainment industry in London during the 1960s. The novel portrays a society where men hold the power and women are objectified and exploited for their physical appearance and sexual availability. The male characters in the novel are portrayed as cocky and confident, while the female characters are often portrayed as submissive and dependent on men for their success. Richler’s portrayal of gender roles and relationships in Cocksure highlights the societal norms and expectations of the time period and raises questions about the impact of these norms on individuals and society as a whole.
Racism and Discrimination
In Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), the theme of racism and discrimination is prevalent throughout the story. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time when racial tensions were high and discrimination was rampant. Richler explores the issue of racism through the character of Sammy, a black jazz musician who faces discrimination and prejudice from the white characters in the novel. Sammy is constantly reminded of his race and is treated as inferior by the white characters, who view him as nothing more than a stereotype. Richler’s portrayal of racism in Cocksure is a powerful commentary on the social and political climate of the time and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
Religion and Spirituality
In Mordecai Richler’s novel Cocksure (1968), religion and spirituality play a significant role in the lives of the characters. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time of great social and cultural change. The characters in the novel are struggling to find their place in this changing world, and religion and spirituality provide them with a sense of stability and meaning. Richler explores the different ways in which his characters approach religion and spirituality, and how these beliefs shape their lives and relationships. Some characters are devoutly religious, while others are more skeptical or indifferent. Through their experiences, Richler raises important questions about the role of religion and spirituality in modern society, and the ways in which these beliefs can both help and hinder individuals in their search for meaning and purpose.
Sexuality and Identity
In Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), the themes of sexuality and identity are explored through the lens of the characters’ experiences in London’s swinging sixties. The novel follows a group of Canadian journalists who are sent to London to cover the city’s cultural revolution. As they navigate the world of free love and experimentation, they are forced to confront their own sexual desires and identities.
One of the most prominent examples of this exploration is the character of Benny Bellman, a closeted gay man who struggles with his sexuality throughout the novel. Benny’s journey is a poignant representation of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during this time period, as he grapples with the fear of being ostracized by his peers and society at large.
Similarly, the character of Nancy, a young woman who is sexually liberated and unapologetic about her desires, challenges traditional gender roles and expectations. Her character serves as a commentary on the changing attitudes towards women’s sexuality during the sixties, as women began to assert their agency and reject societal norms that had previously confined them.
Through these characters and their experiences, Richler offers a nuanced exploration of sexuality and identity during a time of great social change. The novel serves as a reminder of the importance of accepting and embracing diversity, and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Class and Society
In his novel Cocksure (1968), Mordecai Richler explores the intersection of class and society in the context of the British publishing industry. The novel follows a group of young and ambitious writers as they navigate the cutthroat world of literary success, where social connections and class background often play a significant role in determining one’s fate. Richler’s portrayal of the publishing industry highlights the ways in which class privilege can be both a boon and a burden, as characters from working-class backgrounds struggle to gain a foothold in a world dominated by the upper classes. Through his vivid and often satirical depictions of the various characters and their social circles, Richler offers a nuanced critique of the ways in which class and society intersect to shape the lives and careers of those in the literary world.
Politics and Power
In his novel Cocksure (1968), Mordecai Richler explores the themes of politics and power through the lens of the British political system. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time of great social and political change in Britain. Richler uses his characters to satirize the political establishment and to comment on the corrupting influence of power. The novel is a scathing critique of the British political system and the people who inhabit it. Richler’s characters are all flawed and morally ambiguous, and their actions are driven by their desire for power and influence. The novel is a powerful indictment of the political class and their willingness to sacrifice their principles for personal gain. Richler’s writing is sharp and incisive, and his characters are vividly drawn. Cocksure is a must-read for anyone interested in politics and power, and it remains a relevant and timely commentary on the state of politics today.
Language and Communication
Language and Communication play a significant role in Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968). The novel is set in London during the 1960s, and the characters are portrayed as being from different parts of the world, with different accents and dialects. Richler uses language to highlight the cultural differences between the characters and to explore the theme of communication breakdown. The novel is also a commentary on the changing nature of language and communication in the modern world. Richler’s use of language is both humorous and insightful, and it adds depth and complexity to the novel.
Humor and Satire
Mordecai Richler’s novel Cocksure (1968) is a satirical masterpiece that pokes fun at the British publishing industry and the cultural differences between England and America. Richler’s wit and humor are on full display as he skewers the pretensions and egos of the characters in the novel. One of the funniest scenes in the book involves a group of American tourists who are visiting England and are completely baffled by the British obsession with tea. Richler’s satire is sharp and incisive, but it is also laced with a sense of affection for his characters. Despite their flaws and foibles, he manages to make them endearing and relatable. Cocksure is a hilarious and insightful novel that is sure to delight readers who appreciate a good dose of humor and satire.