**What It Means to Be Jewish in a Post-October 7 World: A Review of Howard Jacobson's 'Howl'**
In the wake of the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which saw a massacre of Israeli Jews, the discourse surrounding Jewish identity has shifted dramatically. Howard Jacobson, a Booker Prize-winning author, delves into this complex landscape in his latest novel, *Howl*. The book serves as a reflection on the evolving nature of Jewish identity and the societal responses to violence and hatred, framed through the experiences of its protagonist, Dr. Ferdinand Draxler.
Dr. Draxler, affectionately known as Ferdie, is the headmaster of Strawberry Fields, a non-denominational primary school in South London. Following the October tragedy, Ferdie finds himself grappling with a profound moral ambiguity that permeates his world. The clarity he once held about right and wrong begins to dissolve as he observes the reactions of the media and the public. He notes a disturbing trend, questioning, “in the history of hate, had there ever been anything like this rush of clerks and scholars to embrace savagery?” This sentiment underscores the novel's exploration of the complexities of hate and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the aftermath of violence.
Jacobson's narrative is described as "exploratory and uncertain," steering clear of overt political ideology. Instead, it reflects the author's belief that true literature transcends political dogma. Ferdie's journey is marked by a slow unraveling as he confronts the "existentially absurd" nature of his circumstances. The novel does not shy away from the darker aspects of human behavior, particularly as Ferdie encounters hostility from those within his own community.
One of the central tensions in *Howl* arises from Ferdie's relationship with his deputy, Max Axelberg, a convert to Judaism who appears to reject Ferdie's perspective and the broader Jewish narrative. Axelberg's refusal to acknowledge the atrocities of October 7 and his call for solidarity with the perpetrators create a rift that challenges Ferdie’s understanding of his own identity and the community around him. This conflict is emblematic of the broader struggles within Jewish communities as they navigate differing perspectives on identity, loyalty, and morality.
Ferdie's personal life adds further complexity to his character. His daughter, Zoe, a student at Oxford, becomes increasingly radicalized, participating in protests and rejecting what she perceives as "Zionist propaganda." This generational divide highlights the shifting attitudes among younger Jews and the challenges faced by parents in reconciling their beliefs with those of their children. The tension escalates as Zoe's actions lead her to engage in behaviors that Ferdie finds deeply troubling, such as defacing a poster of an Israeli hostage.
As the narrative unfolds, Ferdie also confronts the painful history of his family. His mother, a Holocaust survivor, faces antisemitic graffiti on her home, a stark reminder of the enduring prejudices that persist in society. This juxtaposition of personal history with contemporary events serves to deepen the exploration of what it means to be Jewish in a world marked by violence and division.
Jacobson employs humor as a tool to navigate the absurdities of the situation. Ferdie's grammar obsession and his disdain for the "dogma" and "vindictive groupthink" of protestors provide moments of comic relief amidst the heavy themes. The author’s ability to infuse humor into serious discussions allows readers to engage with the material thoughtfully, without feeling overwhelmed by its gravity.
The novel also reflects an undercurrent of nostalgia for a possibly idealized version of England, a place where community and understanding might have once flourished. However, Jacobson avoids presenting absolutes; Ferdie’s perceptions of antisemitism are complicated by his own doubts and questionable behaviors, illustrating the multifaceted nature of identity and belonging.
In conclusion, *Howl* by Howard Jacobson offers a poignant exploration of Jewish identity in a post-October 7 world. Through the lens of Ferdie's experiences, the novel addresses the complexities of hate, the challenges of intergenerational dialogue, and the absurdities of contemporary life. Jacobson's work invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the societal dynamics that shape them, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the evolving nature of identity in times of crisis.