Morris Bober

Morris Bober is a 60-year-old Jewish grocer with a rundown store in a mostly non-Jewish neighborhood. In addition to having been wounded in an attempted robbery, Morris has longstanding health problems. Morris works endless hours in the store, from early morning to late at night, relieved only for a nap and other minimal time off by his wife, Ida, and his daughter, Helen. Morris worries constantly about money. He has had offers to buy his store but he adamantly refuses, which infuriates his wife, who feels that there is no hope in this grocery store.

Morris seems to have naturally bad luck. He works long hours and is absolutely honest. Some critics have compared Morris Bober's character to the great Jewish philosopher, Martin Buber. When Morris explains Judaism to Frank, it is clear that Morris is delving into deeper spiritual and philosophical realities than simple outward observance...