Book of Human Folly

The Book of Human Folly symbolizes the inevitability of human imperfection. After Nathan moves to Brooklyn, he occupies himself with a writing project in which he attempts to record every embarrassing event that he can think of, either involving himself or other people. This project highlights and emphasizes the follies that occur in the novel itself.

Hotel Existence

The Hotel Existence symbolizes the human desire for purpose and stability. Harry conceives of the Hotel Existence as a Hotel that would provide a temporary home for wayward or displaced people, and he sees himself as part of its operations. Nathan and Tom like the idea and even consider buying a hotel, but they are financially unable to do so.

Brooklyn

Brooklyn symbolizes the idea that a person can still find stability in their lives after major personal disruptions. Nathan, Tom, and Harry all go...