Underworld: A Novel by Don DeLillo

Don DeLillo’s Underworld is one of the most acclaimed novels of the 1990s, bringing together the complexities of history and the grandeur of American life. Throughout the book, DeLillo examines themes of loss and power, and of humanity’s search for meaning. As readers, we are left with an often uncomfortable portrait of our nation.

The central character in DeLillo’s Underworld is Nicholas Jaworski, a former miltant turned businessman. We follow him from his adolescent years in the Bronx, where his family fled from their war-torn Old Country, to his adulthood in Manhattan. Here, he lives the life of a successful and well-connected executive. But through the years, he is haunted by the past, the secrets and tragedies he witnessed, and the unfulfilled promises of his youth.

In order to better understand his place in the world, Jaworski embarks on a spiritual journey, examining inner lives and examining the world he lives in. He attends lecture series and colloquia, searching for answers in both the popular culture of post-war America and the dark corners of its history.

At the same time, he meets people like JJ, the owner of a 24-hour diner in the city, who provides a reminder of the struggles of lower-class life. He also meets Bobby, an ascetic artist whose paintings bring Jaworski new insights.

But as much as we get to know Jaworski, it’s the secondary characters that give Underworld an epic quality. We meet characters such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Benny Golson and Willie Mays, all of whom provide perspectives on the decade. As much as any action, it is these characters that form the fabric of DeLillo’s novel.

The themes of Underworld are rooted in the Cold War, but presented in a manner that is ultimately timeless. Through the lens of Jaworski’s journey, DeLillo examines the ideas of power and loss, love and death, beauty and truth.

The novel has been lauded for its deep analysis of post-war history and its critique of American life. But at its heart, Underworld is a novel of personal development. As we follow Jaworski on his journey, we’re challenged to examine our lives and the choices we make. We’re also reminded that every moment of life, no matter how small, has consequences.

Ultimately, Don DeLillo’s powerful Underworld is a novel that speaks of our search for identity and purpose, and of the ever-changing nature of our world. Written with great insight and grace, it is a book that can be enjoyed by readers from a variety of backgrounds and interests.