Carnovsky

Carnovsky symbolizes the relationship between fiction and real life, Zuckerman's novel, "Carnovsky," is a popular, supposedly raunchy literary novel, and many people assume that is based on the author's own life and on the people around him. However, Zuckerman attempts in vain to explain that this assertion is untrue. "Carnovsky," is a clear analog for Philip Roth's novel "Portnoy's Complaint."

Fame

Fame symbolizes the loss of privacy and agency. Instead of being happy and enthusiastic about his newfound success and notoriety, Zuckerman spends most of his emotional energy lamenting his loss of privacy. He hates being harassed by strangers on the street or via mail or the telephone. Zuckerman feels as if fame is drastically altering his personal existence.

Money

Money symbolizes both necessity and frivolity. Through the characters of Zuckerman and Pepler, the narrative illustrates two differing perspectives on money. Zuckerman suddenly has so much...