Min Jin Lee's Indelible Twentieth-Century Women
Briefly

The article discusses 'Free Food for Millionaires' by Min Jin Lee and four other significant novels that feature women confronting the complexities of ambition and cultural identity. Each story, including 'Main Street' by Sinclair Lewis and 'Marjorie Morningstar' by Herman Wouk, provides insight into the lives of women influenced by their family's choices and the historical context of their time. These narratives highlight themes of social transformation, gender roles, and the personal struggles against societal norms, emphasizing the enduring relevance of these stories in understanding women's experiences across different eras.
Wouk crafts an intricate narrative reflecting the struggles of Marjorie, a young Jewish woman striving to find her identity amidst the cultural upheaval of the 1950s.
Through her pursuit of a career in the arts, Marjorie seeks fulfillment beyond societal expectations, navigating themes of love, ambition, and cultural heritage.
Read at The New Yorker
[
|
]