Title
Only Yesterday
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Israeli Nobel Laureate S.Y. Agnon s famous masterpiece, his novel Only Yesterday, here appears in English translation for the first time. Published in 1945, the book tells a seemingly simple tale about a man who immigrates to Palestine with the Second Aliyathe several hundred idealists who returned between 1904 and 1914 to work the Hebrew soil as in Biblical times and revive Hebrew culture. Only Yesterday quickly became recognized as a monumental work of world literature, but not only for its vivid historical reconstruction of Israel s founding society. This epic novel also engages the reader in a fascinating network of meanings, contradictions, and paradoxes all leading to the question, what, if anything, controls human existence?Seduced by Zionist slogans, young Isaac Kumer imagines the Land of Israel filled with the financial, social, and erotic opportunities that were denied him, the son of an impoverished shopkeeper, in Poland. Once there, he cannot find the agricultural work he anticipated. Instead Isaac happens upon housepainting jobs as he moves from secular, Zionist Jaffa, where the ideological fervor and sexual freedom are alien to him, to ultraorthodox, antiZionist Jerusalem. While some of his Zionist friends turn capitalist, becoming successful merchants, his own life remains adrift and impoverished in a land torn between idealism and practicality, a place that is at once homeland and diaspora. Eventually he marries a religious woman in Jerusalem, after his worldly girlfriend in Jaffa rejects him.Led astray by circumstances, Isaac always ends up in the place opposite of where he wants to be, but why? The text soars to SurrealistKafkaesque dimensions when, in a playful mode, Isaac drips paint on a stray dog, writing Crazy Dog on his back. Causing panic wherever he roams, the dog takes over the story, until, after enduring persecution for so long without understanding why, he really does go mad and bites Isaac. The dog has been interpreted as everything from the embodiment of Exile to a daemonic force, and becomes an unforgettable character in a book about the death of God, the deception of discourse, the power of suppressed eroticism, and the destiny of a people depicted in all its darkness and promise.
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- Q: How many pages are in 'Only Yesterday'? A: There are seven hundred four pages in 'Only Yesterday'. This extensive length allows for a deep exploration of themes and character development.
- Q: What is the binding type of 'Only Yesterday'? A: The book is published in hardcover format. This durable binding provides a sturdy and long-lasting option for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Only Yesterday'? A: The dimensions of the book are six point seven five inches in length, two point zero one inches in width, and nine point seven six inches in height. These measurements make it a manageable size for reading and display.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Only Yesterday'? A: The author is S.Y. Agnon, a Nobel Laureate from Israel. His work is known for its significant contributions to Jewish literature.
- Q: What is the genre of 'Only Yesterday'? A: The genre of 'Only Yesterday' is Jewish literature. It delves into themes of immigration, identity, and cultural revival.
- Q: What themes does 'Only Yesterday' explore? A: The novel explores themes of idealism, cultural identity, and the complexities of human existence. It reflects on the immigrant experience in early twentieth-century Palestine.
- Q: Is 'Only Yesterday' suitable for young readers? A: The book is primarily aimed at adult readers due to its complex themes and mature content. It is best suited for those interested in historical and literary fiction.
- Q: What is the reading level of 'Only Yesterday'? A: The reading level is considered appropriate for adults and mature teens. Its thematic depth requires a certain level of literary comprehension.
- Q: How should I care for 'Only Yesterday'? A: To care for the hardcover, keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve the book's condition over time.
- Q: Can I clean the cover of 'Only Yesterday'? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid using any cleaning solutions that could damage the material.
- Q: How should I store 'Only Yesterday'? A: Store the book upright on a shelf or in a bookcase. This will prevent warping and damage to the spine.
- Q: What if 'Only Yesterday' arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies in place for damaged items.
- Q: Is there a warranty for 'Only Yesterday'? A: Typically, books do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for their specific return policies.
- Q: What should I do if I have trouble reading 'Only Yesterday'? A: If you find it challenging, consider reading summaries or analyses to better understand the context and themes. Discussion groups may also enhance comprehension.
- Q: Is 'Only Yesterday' a good choice for literary analysis? A: Yes, 'Only Yesterday' is an excellent choice for literary analysis due to its rich themes and complex narrative structure. It provides ample material for discussion.
- Q: How does 'Only Yesterday' compare to other works by S.Y. Agnon? A: Compared to Agnon's other works, 'Only Yesterday' is notable for its historical context and exploration of Jewish identity. It stands out for its narrative depth and philosophical questions.