In his article “The Bold and Brazen Tale of Cocksure (1968): A Summary,” Mordecai Richler provides a brief overview of the satirical novel Cocksure by British author Mordecai Richler. Published in 1968, Cocksure takes a humorous and irreverent look at the world of publishing and politics in London during the 1950s. Richler’s article offers insight into the novel’s themes and characters, as well as its reception by critics and readers.
Background
Cocksure is a novel written by Canadian author Mordecai Richler and published in 1968. The book is a satirical take on the world of publishing and the literary scene in London during the 1960s. Richler, who was known for his sharp wit and biting humor, uses Cocksure to skewer the pretensions and egos of the literary elite, as well as the social and political climate of the time. The novel was well-received upon its release and has since become a classic of Canadian literature.
Plot Summary
The Bold and Brazen Tale of Cocksure (1968) is a satirical novel by Canadian author Mordecai Richler. The story follows a group of young British men who travel to New York City in the hopes of making it big in the publishing industry. The main character, Jake, is a charming but naive writer who quickly becomes caught up in the fast-paced world of Manhattan. Along with his friends, he navigates the cutthroat world of publishing, encountering eccentric characters and engaging in wild parties along the way. However, their dreams of success are threatened when they become embroiled in a scandal involving a controversial book. The novel is a witty and irreverent take on the publishing industry and the pursuit of fame and fortune.
Character Analysis
One of the most intriguing characters in Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure, is Sammy Glickstein. Sammy is a young, ambitious man who dreams of making it big in the entertainment industry. He is brash, confident, and unapologetic in his pursuit of success. However, as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Sammy’s ambition is fueled by a deep-seated insecurity and a fear of failure. Despite his outward bravado, Sammy is constantly plagued by self-doubt and a sense of inadequacy. This makes him a complex and fascinating character to follow throughout the novel. As readers, we are left wondering whether Sammy will ultimately achieve his dreams or whether his insecurities will get the better of him.
Themes
One of the prominent themes in Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), is the idea of ambition and its consequences. The novel follows a group of young, ambitious Canadians who travel to London in the 1960s to make their mark in the world of publishing. However, their eagerness to succeed leads them down a path of deceit, betrayal, and ultimately, failure. Richler explores the idea that ambition can be both a driving force and a destructive one, as the characters’ desire for success blinds them to the consequences of their actions. Another theme in the novel is the clash between Canadian and British culture, as the characters struggle to adapt to the unfamiliar customs and attitudes of their new home. Richler uses humor and satire to highlight the absurdity of the cultural divide, while also exploring the deeper issues of identity and belonging. Overall, Cocksure is a bold and brazen tale that offers a sharp critique of ambition, culture, and the human condition.
Symbolism
Symbolism plays a significant role in Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure. The title itself is symbolic of the characters’ confidence and arrogance, which ultimately leads to their downfall. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time of great social and cultural change. Richler uses various symbols to represent the different aspects of this era, such as the rise of consumerism, the sexual revolution, and the decline of traditional values. One of the most prominent symbols in the novel is the character of Sammy, a young man who represents the new generation of British youth. He is portrayed as a rebel who rejects the old ways and embraces the new, but his rebellion is ultimately hollow and meaningless. Another symbol is the character of Harry, a successful businessman who represents the greed and materialism of the era. He is obsessed with money and status, and his pursuit of these things leads him to make unethical decisions. Overall, Richler uses symbolism to explore the themes of change, disillusionment, and the loss of innocence in Cocksure.
Style and Language
Mordecai Richler’s writing style in Cocksure (1968) is bold and brazen, matching the novel’s satirical tone. Richler’s use of language is often vulgar and explicit, reflecting the characters’ crude behavior and attitudes. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, and Richler captures the era’s slang and colloquialisms, adding to the authenticity of the story. The dialogue is sharp and witty, with characters often engaging in sarcastic banter. Richler’s writing style adds to the novel’s humor and irreverence, making it a memorable read.
Critical Reception
The critical reception of Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure (1968) was mixed. Some praised the novel for its satirical take on the publishing industry and its exploration of themes such as masculinity and power. Others criticized it for its vulgar language and explicit sexual content. Despite the mixed reviews, Cocksure remains a significant work in Richler’s oeuvre and a reflection of the cultural and social climate of the 1960s.
Comparisons to Other Works
In comparison to other works by Mordecai Richler, such as “The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz” and “Barney’s Version,” “Cocksure” stands out as a more satirical and comedic novel. While Richler’s other works also contain elements of humor, “Cocksure” takes it to a new level with its exaggerated characters and absurd situations. Additionally, “Cocksure” tackles themes of sexuality and morality in a more explicit and provocative manner than Richler’s other works. Overall, “Cocksure” showcases Richler’s versatility as a writer and his ability to tackle a range of genres and themes.
Historical and Cultural Context
The historical and cultural context of Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), is crucial to understanding the themes and characters within the story. Set in London during the swinging sixties, the novel captures the spirit of a time when social norms were being challenged and traditional values were being questioned. The sexual revolution was in full swing, and the characters in Cocksure are no exception. They are young, ambitious, and eager to explore their newfound freedom. However, the novel also reflects the political and social tensions of the time, with references to the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. Richler’s portrayal of the characters and their struggles is a reflection of the changing attitudes and values of the era, making Cocksure a fascinating snapshot of a pivotal moment in history.
Mordecai Richler’s Biography
Mordecai Richler was a Canadian author, essayist, and screenwriter. Born in Montreal in 1931, Richler grew up in the city’s Jewish working-class neighborhood of St. Urbain. He attended Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) but dropped out before completing his degree. Richler began his writing career as a journalist, working for various newspapers and magazines in Canada and the United States. He published his first novel, The Acrobats, in 1954, and went on to write several more novels, including Cocksure (1968). Richler was known for his satirical and often controversial writing, which often dealt with themes of Jewish identity, Canadian culture, and politics. He passed away in 2001 at the age of 70.
Impact and Legacy
The impact and legacy of Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure (1968) cannot be overstated. The novel, which satirizes the world of publishing and the literary scene in London, was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its wit, humor, and incisive commentary on the pretensions and follies of the literary elite.
But beyond its immediate impact, Cocksure has had a lasting legacy. It has become a classic of Canadian literature, and is often cited as one of Richler’s most important works. Its influence can be seen in the work of other Canadian writers, who have been inspired by Richler’s irreverent and satirical approach to storytelling.
Moreover, Cocksure remains relevant today, as its themes of ambition, ego, and the corrupting influence of power continue to resonate with readers. In an age where social media has given rise to a new breed of self-promoting “influencers,” the novel’s critique of the cult of celebrity and the commodification of art feels more timely than ever.
In short, Cocksure is a book that has stood the test of time. It is a testament to Richler’s talent as a writer, and a reminder of the enduring power of satire to expose the follies and foibles of human nature.
Adaptations and Film Versions
The Bold and Brazen Tale of Cocksure, a novel by Mordecai Richler, has been adapted into a film version. The film, released in 1975, starred Oliver Reed and Samantha Eggar. However, the film received mixed reviews and did not achieve the same success as the novel. Despite this, the film adaptation remains an interesting interpretation of Richler’s work and a testament to the enduring popularity of the novel.
Controversies and Censorship
One of the most controversial aspects of Mordecai Richler’s novel Cocksure (1968) is its explicit sexual content. The book was banned in Australia and South Africa, and faced censorship challenges in Canada and the United States. Some critics argued that the novel was obscene and lacked literary merit, while others praised its satirical wit and social commentary. Richler himself defended the book, stating that it was a reflection of the sexual revolution and changing attitudes towards sexuality in the 1960s. Despite the controversy, Cocksure remains a landmark work of Canadian literature and a testament to Richler’s bold and brazen style.
Interviews with Mordecai Richler
In interviews, Mordecai Richler has spoken about the inspiration behind his novel Cocksure. He revealed that the idea for the book came to him while he was living in London and observing the city’s swinging sixties culture. Richler was fascinated by the way in which people were becoming more open about their sexuality and experimenting with new forms of relationships. He wanted to explore this theme in his writing and create a satirical commentary on the changing social norms of the time. Richler also drew on his own experiences as a young writer trying to make it in the literary world, which gave the novel an added layer of authenticity. Overall, Cocksure is a bold and brazen tale that captures the spirit of a generation and remains a classic of Canadian literature.
Analysis of Specific Passages
One of the most striking passages in Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure (1968) is the scene in which the protagonist, Jake, attends a party hosted by a wealthy American expat in London. The party is a lavish affair, with champagne flowing freely and guests dressed in their finest attire. As Jake navigates the crowd, he is struck by the sense of entitlement and arrogance that seems to permeate the room.
Richler’s description of the partygoers is both humorous and cutting, as he skewers their pretensions and exposes their shallow values. He writes, “They were all so sure of themselves, so cocksure, as if they had been born to privilege and could never imagine a life without it. They talked about their yachts and their country estates, their trips to exotic locales and their expensive hobbies, as if these were the only things that mattered in life.”
Through this passage, Richler highlights the stark contrast between the wealthy elite and the working-class characters who populate much of the novel. Jake, a struggling journalist, is acutely aware of his own lack of status and feels out of place among the partygoers. Yet, he is also keenly observant and able to see through the façade of wealth and power that surrounds him.
Overall, this passage is a powerful commentary on the corrosive effects of privilege and the dangers of unchecked arrogance. Richler’s sharp wit and incisive prose make it clear that, despite their wealth and status, the characters in Cocksure are ultimately no more secure or certain than anyone else.
Writing Techniques and Devices
One of the most notable writing techniques used in Mordecai Richler’s Cocksure (1968) is his use of satire. Richler employs satire to criticize and mock the societal norms and values of the time, particularly those related to sex and relationships. Through his use of exaggerated and absurd situations, Richler highlights the hypocrisy and absurdity of these norms. Additionally, Richler uses vivid and descriptive language to create a sense of place and atmosphere, immersing the reader in the world of the novel. This technique is particularly effective in conveying the hedonistic and debauched atmosphere of London in the 1960s. Overall, Richler’s use of satire and descriptive language make Cocksure a bold and brazen tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Symbolism and Imagery
Symbolism and imagery play a significant role in Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968). The title itself is a symbol of the characters’ confidence and arrogance, which ultimately leads to their downfall. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time of social and cultural revolution, and Richler uses imagery to depict the city’s vibrant and chaotic atmosphere. The characters’ clothing, hairstyles, and music preferences are all used to symbolize their social status and cultural identity. Additionally, the recurring image of the Thames River represents the characters’ journey towards self-discovery and the inevitable consequences of their actions. Richler’s use of symbolism and imagery adds depth and complexity to the novel, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploring the social and cultural landscape of 1960s London.
Humor and Satire
Mordecai Richler’s novel, Cocksure (1968), is a hilarious and satirical take on the world of publishing and politics. The story follows a group of British and American writers as they attend a literary festival in a small Irish town. The characters are all larger than life, with their egos and ambitions on full display. Richler’s wit and humor are on full display as he skewers the pretensions and absurdities of the literary world. The novel is a riotous romp that will leave readers laughing out loud.
Irony and Paradox
One of the most striking aspects of Mordecai Richler’s novel Cocksure (1968) is the use of irony and paradox throughout the story. The title itself is a paradox, as the characters are anything but sure of themselves and their actions. The novel is set in London during the 1960s, a time of great social change and upheaval. The characters are all struggling to find their place in this new world, but their attempts are often misguided and ultimately futile. Richler uses irony to highlight the absurdity of their actions and the contradictions in their beliefs. For example, the character of Sammy, a Jewish gangster, is obsessed with the idea of assimilation and becoming more British, but his actions only serve to reinforce his outsider status. Similarly, the character of Lorna, a feminist writer, is so focused on her own agenda that she fails to see the hypocrisy in her actions. Richler’s use of irony and paradox adds depth and complexity to the novel, and forces the reader to question their own beliefs and assumptions.