Elkan Lubliner, American

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27423

Title

Elkan Lubliner, American

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Montague Glass's witty tale follows Elkan Lubliner, a modest but ambitious American immigrant and junior partner in a New York garment firm. As his wealthy, flamboyant rival Jacob Scharley courts a sophisticated widow in a resort town, Elkan navigates office politics, family obligations, and the competitive cloak-and-suit trade. With characteristic humor and warmth, Glass explores themes of class, ambition, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship in early 20th-century America.

Summary up to 500 words

In Montague Glass's charming comedy *Elkan Lubliner, American*, the narrative centers on Elkan Lubliner, a hardworking but somewhat naive junior partner in the Lower East Side garment firm of Polatkin, Scheikowitz & Company. Elkan finds himself overshadowed by his wealthy rival, Jacob Scharley, a man of high-society aspirations who frequently outshines Elkan in social and business circles. The story unfolds primarily at a summer resort, where Scharley arrives to court the elegant widow, Mrs. Sarah Lesengeld. Initially left behind due to domestic preparations, Elkan eventually joins the festivities, witnessing Scharley's bold advances, which include dining with Mrs. Lesengeld and her daughter, and even assisting her with her hair styling. The novel vividly contrasts Elkan's modest background with Scharley's elite ambitions, while simultaneously exploring the camaraderie and occasional friction between Elkan and his senior partners, Marcus Polatkin and Philip Scheikowitz. Glass's prose is laced with Yiddishisms and colloquialisms, capturing the vibrant life of the immigrant experience and the Lower East Side. The narrative balances humor with heartfelt moments, showcasing the resilience and optimism of its characters as they navigate love, business, and social climbing. A key subplot involves the arrival of Elkan's cousin, Borrochson, an immigrant from Minsk whose family history is a source of both pride and friction within the firm. The story culminates in Mrs. Lesengeld's marriage to Scharley, a union celebrated by the Lubliner family. Through this tale, Glass highlights the complexities of American identity for immigrants, the dynamics of partnership, and the enduring hope that hard work and good humor can overcome social barriers.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg27423.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Jews
• Immigrants
• Clothing workers