undefined
James Agee’s novel, A Death In the Family is very much a parallel to his own tragic childhood. In all cases, it is said to be an American Classic. It explores the rippling effect one person’s death can have on numerous people. The book is told from many points of view. A very apparent theme in this story is religion
The novel begins with Jay and his son, Rufus, seeing a Charlie Chaplin film. When they return home, Jay gets a call from his alcoholic brother, Ralph. Ralph tells Jay drunkenly that their father, who has a past of heart attacks, has suffered the worst one yet and he thinks the end is near. Jay goes to visit his father in the countryside and discovers, just as he thought, Ralph was exaggerating and his father is recovering. The next day, Rufus and his family learn that on the way home, Jay has gotten in a fatal car accident. Agee shows all the emotions of the family. The story is told from perspectives of different family members.
I thought this book vas very difficult to read. The organization of the wording was hard to follow. Agee was trying to create a sense of multi-level meanings. The symbolism in the book isn’t hard to recognize. I would give this book 4 out of ten. The book raises issues of religion, and the emotions and sorrow associated with death. The book suggests that it is best to go with God, as many times Mary is put at ease by asking God to guide her. The book doesn’t go into much detail about how greatly drinking has affected this family. I thought in the beginning of the story, alcoholism would play a bigger role.
The role in religion and its surrounding conflicts, even today, are major issues. It is my personal opinion that the rest of the family, including Mary’s father, should have encouraged religion in the family, and especially Rufus and Catherine. If it was Mary’s wish to raise the children as Catholics and help them cope with the loss of their father by turning to God, they shouldn’t have protested. My opinions have not changed about anything since I read this book. It didn’t have much of an effect on me and I am surprised that the book is thought of so highly. I thought Agee’s attempt to tap into the reader’s emotions was unsuccessful.
I chose James Agee to experience his unique style. Most sources say that A Death in the Family is an American classic. My opinions of the author have made a complete turn-around. I was extremely disappointed with the work and thought that for all the work that was put into it, it was a failed effort to capture the reader's emotions.
Home
Biography
Photo Gallery
Other Works
Excerpt
Works Cited
