Do lies raise you up or weigh you down? The Assistant implicitly asks this question. Its answer? Both. Morris Bober, an honest grocer, refuses to cheat and watches as those who will deceive others grow their businesses. Frank Alpine lands a job based on a lie. His continued deception doesn't prevent him from getting a raise, even if his conscience is troubled. It isn't until his lies are discovered that he comes crashing down. Lies and deceit can take you places, as long as you don't get caught and aren't bothered by the morality of it all. This isn't the way the world should be, but it's the way it is.
Questions About Lies and Deceit
- How is Morris's refusal to lie related to his Jewish faith?
- Why does Morris trust cheaters?
- Who is the most dishonest character in the novel?
- What in the story is the relationship between truth and reality?
Chew on This
Because Frank confesses his lies, he's fundamentally an honest man.
Even though Frank confesses his lies, or wants to own up to them, he's fundamentally dishonest.