8/7

I’ve really enjoyed reading this book. I’ve found it very interesting throughout the novel; Bernstein still manages to confirm the goodness of ordinary Americans, despite the increasingly number of terrible things that happen to him. He references TV producers and people in the entertainment industry who were more than willing to talk to him, in private out of fear, of course, but they are willing to share their compassions and opinions nonetheless. He constantly mentions that various people shared deep sympathy and are openly outraged by the blacklisting. Sure, he’s still very isolated and lonely, but even small interactions confirm his overall faith in humanity.

And even after his fronts bail on him, he admits being disheartened and annoyed, but struggles to really despise the individuals as they both admit that they are still very much against the system. While his mood towards the government and those doing the blacklisting, and even thoughts of patriotism overall, certainly do become more negative he still portrays an immense appreciation for the natural goodness in people and the values that America is based on. It’ll be interesting to see how his narrative progresses in the final sections of the work. Will his writing and opinions become pessimistic, as I had expected when beginning this book? The tone certainly has been shifting—and seems to worsen gradually, rather than with each negative event in his life. Or will he still manage, despite living in total isolation as a direct result of a handful of crazy member in society, to keep a relatively positive mindset?

For my essay, I am working with the idea about how he manages his two identities, a blacklisted communist and an American. I think his positive attitude helps ties these themes together. Even when the government and entertainment are being attacked he still values American ideals and rights. He’s actively points out the flaws in the Soviet Union and seems to gain perspective that this era will eventually pass.