Multiple Meanings of the Ending of Seize the Day

摘要

The ending of Seize the Day, one of the representative works of American contemporary famous writer Saul Bellow, has multiple meanings. Firstly, in the first part of his life, Wilhelm is constrained by his "pretender soul". At the end of the novel, in the Jewish chapel, Wilhelm begins to realize the "ultimate need of his heart" is to seek the "real soul". Secondly, in the Jewish chapel, Wilhelm realizes his Jewish identity once again. The awareness of suffering comes to the surface of his mind again. Wilhelm's spirit is redeemed. Thirdly, in spite of the pitiful relationship between people, Wilhelm identifies with and adheres to the commandment of loving one's neighbors in Jewish ethics.