The Accident Study Guide

The Accident is the story of a holocaust survivor struggling to adjust to life after World War II. The main character is a journalist whose own experiences during the holocaust have left him, like many others, with a strong sense of despair and self-loathing such that he finds it impossible to find any satisfaction in life. Despite the efforts of his girlfriend and others, he finds himself withdrawing from life. The title of the novel refers to an accident that occurs when he is hit by a cab, while on his way to the theatre. This accident sets off a series of memories that take the reader through the protagonist's psychological and emotional struggles as he grapples with his urge to end his life while simultaneously recovering from a near-death experience. The original French title of the book was Le Jour (Day), and it follows the author's two previous works: Dawn and Night. (read more)