American Pastoral Appearances Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

He has devised for himself an incognito, and the incognito has become him. (1.55)

Incognito is just such a fun word. The Swede basically exists entirely in incognito mode. Many Zuckerman adventures explore people who try to hide, or change, or disguise their identities.

Quote #5

"I was wrong. I was never more mistaken about anyone in my life." (1.100)

This is Zuckerman's motto throughout the sections of the novel he graces with his presence. It becomes the Swede's motto too—in terms of Merry, Dawn, his brother, even himself.

Quote #6

"A shiksa," the narrator thinks. "Dawn Dwyer. He'd done it." (1.18)

"Shiksa" is a term that shows up often in Roth novels. Shiksas are any non-Jewish women. The term can be used derogatorily or for humorous effect. Jewish parents like Lou Levov don't want their sons marrying shiksas. Dawn is kind of an ultimate shiksa because she's almost Miss America.