Friendship and betrayal are two of the most complex and universal themes in literature. In his novel, A Choice of Enemies (1979), Mordecai Richler explores these themes through the story of two childhood friends, one Jewish and one Arab, who find themselves on opposite sides of the Arab-Israeli conflict. This article provides a summary of the novel, examining how Richler navigates the complexities of friendship and betrayal in a politically charged context.
The Complexities of Friendship and Betrayal: A Summary of A Choice of Enemies (1979) by Mordecai Richler
In A Choice of Enemies, Mordecai Richler explores the intricacies of friendship and betrayal through the lens of two childhood friends, Norman and St. John. The novel is set in the 1950s and follows the two men as they navigate their way through the political and social landscape of Montreal.
Norman is a successful businessman who has made a name for himself in the city’s Jewish community. St. John, on the other hand, is a struggling writer who has fallen on hard times. Despite their differences in status, the two men have remained close friends since childhood.
However, their friendship is put to the test when St. John becomes involved with a group of left-wing activists who are protesting against the Vietnam War. Norman, who is a staunch supporter of the war, sees St. John’s involvement as a betrayal of their friendship and begins to distance himself from his friend.
As the novel progresses, the tensions between the two men escalate, culminating in a violent confrontation that leaves both of them questioning the nature of their friendship. Richler’s portrayal of the complexities of friendship and betrayal is both nuanced and thought-provoking, forcing readers to confront their own beliefs about loyalty and trust.
Overall, A Choice of Enemies is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and a testament to Richler’s skill as a writer. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human relationships, and the ways in which they can be both strengthened and destroyed by the choices we make.
The Characters
The characters in A Choice of Enemies are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own motivations and flaws. The protagonist, Norman Price, is a successful businessman who is struggling to find meaning in his life. He is torn between his loyalty to his childhood friend, Stavros, and his desire to protect his own interests. Stavros, on the other hand, is a charismatic and manipulative figure who uses his charm to get what he wants. He is willing to betray anyone, including his closest friends, in order to achieve his goals. The other characters in the novel, such as Norman’s wife and Stavros’ wife, also play important roles in the story, adding depth and complexity to the relationships between the characters. Overall, the characters in A Choice of Enemies are well-developed and realistic, making the novel a compelling exploration of the complexities of friendship and betrayal.
The Setting
The setting of A Choice of Enemies is primarily in London, England during the 1970s. The city is described as a place of political turmoil, with tensions between the left and right-wing factions. The protagonist, Norman Price, is a Canadian journalist who has moved to London to escape his troubled past. He finds himself caught up in the political scene, attending rallies and interviewing politicians. The city’s atmosphere is tense and unpredictable, mirroring the complex relationships between the characters in the novel. The setting also includes flashbacks to Montreal, Canada, where Norman grew up and where his past mistakes continue to haunt him. Overall, the setting of A Choice of Enemies plays a significant role in the novel, creating a backdrop of political unrest and personal turmoil.
The Plot
The plot of A Choice of Enemies revolves around the friendship between two men, Norman and St. John. Norman is a successful businessman who is married to a beautiful woman named Lucy. St. John, on the other hand, is a struggling writer who is constantly in debt. Despite their differences, the two men have been friends since childhood and have always been there for each other.
However, their friendship is put to the test when St. John begins an affair with Lucy. Norman is devastated by the betrayal and feels that he can no longer trust his friend. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a journey of complex emotions and moral dilemmas as the characters struggle to come to terms with their actions and the consequences that follow.
Richler’s masterful storytelling and vivid characterizations make A Choice of Enemies a compelling read that explores the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of betrayal. The plot is both engaging and thought-provoking, leaving readers with much to ponder long after the final page has been turned.
The Theme of Betrayal
Betrayal is a recurring theme in Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies. The novel explores the complexities of friendship and the consequences of betrayal. The characters in the novel are constantly betraying each other, whether it is through infidelity, deceit, or abandonment. The theme of betrayal is particularly evident in the relationship between the protagonist, Norman, and his best friend, Duddy. Norman is constantly betrayed by Duddy, who uses him for his own gain and then abandons him when he no longer needs him. This betrayal ultimately leads to the downfall of both characters. The novel suggests that betrayal is a destructive force that can have far-reaching consequences, not only for the individuals involved but also for society as a whole.
The Theme of Friendship
Friendship is a theme that has been explored in literature for centuries. It is a complex and multifaceted concept that can bring joy, comfort, and support, but also pain, betrayal, and disappointment. In his novel A Choice of Enemies (1979), Mordecai Richler delves into the intricacies of friendship and betrayal, portraying the complex relationships between a group of friends who grew up together in Montreal’s Jewish community. Through his characters’ experiences, Richler highlights the challenges and contradictions of friendship, as well as the consequences of betrayal and disloyalty. Whether it is the betrayal of a friend’s trust, the breaking of a promise, or the abandonment of a friendship, Richler’s novel shows that the consequences of these actions can be devastating and long-lasting. However, it also suggests that true friendship can withstand even the most difficult challenges, and that forgiveness and reconciliation are possible, even in the face of betrayal. Ultimately, A Choice of Enemies is a powerful exploration of the complexities of friendship and the human capacity for both loyalty and betrayal.
The Role of Money in the Novel
Money plays a significant role in Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies. The novel explores the complexities of friendship and betrayal in the context of the political and social landscape of the 1970s. The characters’ relationships are often defined by their financial status and the power dynamics that come with it. The protagonist, Norman, is a struggling writer who is envious of his wealthy friend, Duddy. Duddy’s wealth and success give him a sense of power and influence that Norman lacks. This power dynamic ultimately leads to a betrayal that tests the limits of their friendship. The novel also examines the corrupting influence of money on politics and the ways in which it can be used to manipulate and control people. Richler’s exploration of the role of money in the novel highlights the complex and often fraught nature of human relationships and the ways in which money can both bring people together and tear them apart.
The Portrayal of Women
In A Choice of Enemies, Mordecai Richler portrays women in a complex and nuanced manner. While some female characters are depicted as strong and independent, others are shown as submissive and dependent on men. The protagonist’s wife, for example, is portrayed as a traditional housewife who is content with her role as a mother and homemaker. On the other hand, the protagonist’s mistress is a successful businesswoman who is not afraid to challenge him intellectually. Richler’s portrayal of women reflects the societal expectations and gender roles of the time, but also highlights the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences.
The Use of Humor
In A Choice of Enemies, Mordecai Richler uses humor to explore the complexities of friendship and betrayal. Through the character of St. Urbain, Richler employs a satirical tone to poke fun at the pretentiousness and hypocrisy of the Montreal literary scene. St. Urbain’s witty observations and sarcastic remarks provide a humorous commentary on the social dynamics of the group, while also highlighting the insecurities and vulnerabilities of its members. By using humor to expose the flaws and contradictions of his characters, Richler creates a nuanced portrayal of friendship and betrayal that is both entertaining and insightful.
The Significance of the Title
The title of Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies is significant in understanding the themes and conflicts explored in the novel. The phrase “choice of enemies” suggests a deliberate decision to align oneself against certain individuals or groups. This concept is central to the novel’s exploration of friendship and betrayal, as the characters navigate their relationships with each other and with their own values and beliefs. The title also hints at the political and social tensions present in the novel, as the characters grapple with issues of identity, loyalty, and power. Overall, the title serves as a fitting introduction to the complex and nuanced world of A Choice of Enemies.
The Historical Context
In order to fully understand the complexities of friendship and betrayal in Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies, it is important to consider the historical context in which the novel is set. The story takes place in the 1950s, a time when the world was still reeling from the aftermath of World War II and the Cold War was beginning to heat up. The novel is set in London, a city that was still recovering from the devastation of the Blitz and was struggling to find its place in the post-war world. Against this backdrop, Richler explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for identity that are central to the novel. By examining the historical context of the novel, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, as well as the larger social and political forces that shape their lives.
The Literary Style
Mordecai Richler’s literary style in A Choice of Enemies (1979) is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and sharp wit. Richler’s writing is often satirical, poking fun at the absurdities of human behavior and society’s conventions. He also employs a stream-of-consciousness narrative style, allowing readers to delve deep into the minds of his characters and understand their motivations and inner conflicts. Richler’s prose is both humorous and poignant, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of navigating the murky waters of friendship and betrayal. Overall, Richler’s literary style in A Choice of Enemies is a masterful blend of humor, insight, and social commentary.
The Reception of the Novel
The reception of A Choice of Enemies was mixed. Some critics praised Richler’s ability to capture the complexities of friendship and betrayal, while others criticized the novel for its bleak and cynical portrayal of human relationships. Despite the mixed reviews, the novel was a commercial success and cemented Richler’s reputation as one of Canada’s most important writers. Today, A Choice of Enemies is considered a classic of Canadian literature and continues to be studied and analyzed by scholars and readers alike.
The Author’s Background and Influences
Mordecai Richler, the author of A Choice of Enemies, was born in Montreal, Canada in 1931. He grew up in a Jewish family and attended a Jewish school, which heavily influenced his writing. Richler’s experiences growing up in Montreal also played a significant role in his writing, as he often wrote about the city and its inhabitants.
Richler’s writing was also influenced by his political beliefs. He was a socialist and often wrote about social and political issues in his work. A Choice of Enemies, in particular, deals with themes of political corruption and betrayal.
In addition to his own experiences and beliefs, Richler was also influenced by other writers. He was a fan of the works of Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, and their writing styles can be seen in his own work.
Overall, Richler’s background and influences played a significant role in shaping his writing and the themes he explored in his work.
The Connection to Richler’s Other Works
Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies (1979) is not an isolated work in the author’s oeuvre. In fact, it is deeply connected to his other works, particularly those that explore the complexities of human relationships. Richler’s characters are often flawed and conflicted, and their interactions with each other are fraught with tension and ambiguity. A Choice of Enemies is no exception, as it delves into the intricacies of friendship and betrayal in a way that is both insightful and unsettling. Richler’s other works, such as The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz (1959) and Barney’s Version (1997), also explore these themes, but A Choice of Enemies stands out for its unflinching portrayal of the darker side of human nature. Despite its bleakness, however, the novel is ultimately a testament to the enduring power of friendship, even in the face of betrayal and disappointment.
The Adaptation to Film
The adaptation of A Choice of Enemies to film was a long-awaited event for fans of Mordecai Richler’s work. The novel’s intricate plot and complex characters presented a challenge for filmmakers, but director Richard Pearce managed to capture the essence of the story on screen. The film starred Martin Sheen as the protagonist, George Smiley, and Sam Waterston as his friend and betrayer, Jack McClelland. The performances of both actors were praised by critics, who noted their ability to convey the emotional depth of their characters. The film’s cinematography and score also received positive reviews, adding to the overall impact of the adaptation. Despite some changes to the original story, the film remained faithful to Richler’s themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships.
The Relevance of the Novel Today
The novel A Choice of Enemies by Mordecai Richler, published in 1979, explores the complexities of friendship and betrayal in a group of young men growing up in Montreal during the 1940s and 1950s. Despite being over 40 years old, the themes and issues presented in the novel remain relevant today. The novel delves into the intricacies of human relationships, the consequences of our actions, and the impact of societal expectations on individuals. These are all issues that continue to affect people today, making A Choice of Enemies a timeless piece of literature. Additionally, the novel provides a glimpse into a specific time and place in history, offering readers a chance to learn about and understand a different era. Overall, A Choice of Enemies is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that remains relevant and important today.
The Importance of A Choice of Enemies in Canadian Literature
In Canadian literature, the choice of enemies plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and character development. Mordecai Richler’s A Choice of Enemies (1979) is a prime example of this. The novel explores the complexities of friendship and betrayal, and how the choice of enemies can ultimately define one’s identity. Richler’s characters are forced to confront their own prejudices and biases as they navigate their relationships with those they consider their enemies. Through this exploration, Richler highlights the importance of understanding and challenging our own beliefs in order to truly connect with others. A Choice of Enemies serves as a reminder that our enemies can teach us just as much, if not more, than our friends.