Tevye Reads the Psalms Shalom Alechiem (1914 - 1916)
The Plain Facts
- Length:6 pages
- Genre:Yiddish Old Country Tales
- Characters:Tevye speaks to Shalom Aleichem.
- Setting: a little village where Tevye lives.
So, what's It About Man?
Tevye reads the psalms and reflects on the state of the Jewish People. A people still in exile. Tevye is speaking to Shalom Aleichem, and Shalom Aleichem is writing down the words. I can envision a little imp like man, with a round belly, speaking in time with Fiddler on the Roof: If I were A Rich Man. This was the last Tevye story written.
First WordsNo doubt you remember, Mister Shalom Aleichem, that I once gave you a rundown of the weekly biblical portion "Get Thee Out" and supplemented it with about three dozen commentaries.
Last WordsLive and be well, have a good trip, and send my best to all our fellow Jews. Tell them not to worry, for our ancient God still lives.
Shalom Aleichem is a master story teller. His use of voice is so, oy vey, how do you say it? STRONG. I can hear the character like he is talking directly to me. I also love how Teyve uses word of God, that he studies daily, to avert a gang of village hoodlums. The piece shares, with the reader, the times of living in exile in a place that is constantly being attacked.
Turnip Tipsread the Jewish Literary Review
An organized, often officially encouraged massacre or persecution of a minority group, especially one conducted against Jews.