U.S.A. (trilogy)

The U.S.A. trilogy, consisting of The 42nd Parallel, 1919, and The Big Money, is a three-part novel by John Dos Passos that chronicles events from the early years of the twentieth century, from the beginning of World War I through the stock market crash in 1929. It is widely regarded as one of the most important works of literature of the twentieth century, and has been praised for its innovative and expansive narrative style.

The 42nd Parallel tells the stories of several characters in the US just before WWI, focusing on their struggles to make their way through society and the various political and social issues of the day. The characters move against the backdrop of the exploding energy and possibility of the early industrial age. Through the stories of its characters, the novel captures the power and dynamism of the era and raises many of the same questions about the increasing divergence between the country’s rich and the poor, that are still relevant today.

The second novel in the trilogy, 1919, follows a large, and expanding, cast of characters through their experiences in the tumultuous first year after World War I as they seek to make a life and a living in a rapidly changing society. Each of the characters, representing various social and economic classes and states of mind, brings a unique perspective to the events of 1919, making it a vivid, textured portrait of this decisive year.

The third novel in the trilogy, The Big Money, covers the period from 1929 to 1932, the years leading up to and during the stock market crash. Through the stories and experiences of its characters, the novel shows how the changing economic climate affects individuals, families and communities in different ways. The story follows the characters through their escapades, confrontations and struggles to survive as the entire country is on the brink of collapse.

The U.S.A. Trilogy is an ambitious and powerful novel that brings to life the history, hopes, fears and dreams of the nation during this critical time period. It chronicles the transformation of a nation as it emerges on the world stage, and its characters explore the issues of class and identity in America. The trilogy provides a vivid, detailed look at the transformation of America from the beginning of the twentieth century to the beginning of the Great Depression. It offers a compelling narrative of the growing gap between the wealthy and the poor, and the struggles of the working class during a turbulent time in American history. Through its cast of memorable characters, the novel is an exploration of American identity, a commentary on the power of ambition in the face of personal and societal challenges, and a timeless classic that has become a must-read for avid readers of literature.