The Undeterred Mr. H*Y*M*A*N* K*A*P*L*A*N*

                The persistence and optimism of the character of Mr. Hyman Kaplan in this book is unparallel to any other I have ever witnessed.  The main character was constantly being scrutinized, corrected, and “shot down,” but through it all he consistently had a gleaming smile on his face. The question arises as to whether his smile came out of sheer enjoyment or because he simply was not fully aware of his thoughts. Then again, it could be argued that Mr. Kaplan in fact knew he was wrong, but did not care. Nothing and no one, not even Mrs. Moskowitz could deter him from his pride and happiness. Although it seems as though Mr. Kaplan had a lot to learn, it stands true that a lot could be learned from Mr. Kaplan as well. Although often times wrong, his logic seemingly always backed up his incorrect statements.  Mr. Kaplan’s optimism is exemplified in his description of what he thinks is Julius Caesars, or in his case, “Julius Scissor,” He say’s life should be happy- so we should remember this is only a poem. Maybe is Shakespeare too passimistic”

                One thing that I really noticed in the book was how precise and “dry” the English language and American culture can be at times. A statement that Mr. Kaplan made pertaining to Jake Popper’s funeral stuck out in my mind; “Keplen, you in America, so tink like de Americans tink!’ So I tought, an’ I didn’t go. Becawss I thought dat dip American idea, Business before pleasure.” Could this possibly be a subtle comment on the American way of life?