It's typical for college students to change majors once, twice, maybe three times, but those who graduate eventually settle their decision and move ahead. Augie March, the protagonist of Bellow's great American novel, has lived his entire adult life (so far) like the college freshman who can't decide where to specialize. He moves from job to job, relationship to relationship, and place to place all because he doesn't know what he wants for himself. The Adventures of Augie March tells a story about a character for whom the sky is the limit, but can't seem to figure out which direction is up.
Questions About Dreams, Hopes, Plans
- Why does Augie get pulled so often into the plans of others?
- Who most wants Augie to succeed at life?
- Why do you think Augie isn't very specific about his life's plan?
- What does Augie hope for most out of life?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
When Augie finally formulates a specific plan for his life, he intends to see it through.
Augie really isn't committed to his plan to build a school.