Even though Wilhelm wants forgiveness and mercy from his father and wife, he can hardly bring himself to take responsibility for his mistakes. The precise date of Wilhelm's "day of reckoning" isn't clear, but clues in the novel suggest that Yom Kippur is coming up soon—the Jewish day of atonement, where repentances are made and forgiveness is asked for one's sins. Coincidence? We don't think so. Still, we're not so sure if this has much bearing on Wilhelm's actions throughout Seize the Day: Wilhelm is a pretty secular guy, and in matters of faith, just like everything else, he's pretty much lost at sea.
Questions About Compassion and Forgiveness
- What is the significance of Yom Kippur in Seize the Day? Does it underscore the entire narrative, or is it simply one small detail among many?
- At any point in the novel, does Wilhelm actually ask for his father's, his wife's, or God's forgiveness?
- Tamkin tells Wilhelm that he can see and hear the great suffering of mankind.
- What does he want to do about it? What would it take for Dr. Adler to forgive his son for his mistakes?
Chew on This
In a city where no one seems to give a hoot about his fellow man, a guy could make a killing by pretending to care. Tamkin's no fool: he knows that if he supplies the kindness and compassion that Wilhelm so desperately craves, he'll have this man (and his wallet) in the palm of his hand.
Dr. Tamkin may be a scam artist and a liar, but his love for humanity is genuine. Although he bankrupts Wilhelm and disappears without a trace, he shows his friend compassion when no one else will.