Yamulkas in Berlin 1:30

However disagreeable the phenomenon may seem at moments of sensitivity it is seldom more than trivial. The dislike of Jews was a ready way for WASP literati to identify themselves with the great tradition. Besides, it is something like a hereditary option for non-Jews to exercise at a certain moment when they discover that they have a born right to decide whether they are for the Jews or against them. (Jews have no such right.)-Saul Bellow as quoted from the Jewish Literary Review

 Tevye Reads the Psalms Shalom Alechiem (1914 - 1916)

The Plain Facts

1. Length:6 pages 
2. Genre:Yiddish Old Country Tales
3. Characters:Tevye speaks to Shalom Aleichem.
4. Setting: a little village where Tevye lives. 

So, what's It About Man?

Tevye reads the psalms and reflects on the state of the Jewish People.  A people still in exile.   Tevye is speaking to Shalom Aleichem, and Shalom Aleichem is writing down the words.   I can envision a little imp like man, with a round belly, speaking in time with Fiddler on the Roof: If I were A Rich Man. This was the last Tevye story written.

Vegetable Juice

First Words

No doubt you remember, Mister Shalom Aleichem, that I once gave you a rundown of the weekly biblical portion "Get Thee Out" and supplemented it with about three dozen commentaries.

Last Words

Live and be well, have a good trip, and send my best to all our fellow Jews.  Tell them not to worry, for our ancient God still lives.
 

Literary Review

Shalom Aleichem is a master story teller. His use of voice is so, oy vey, how do you say it? STRONG. I can hear the character like he is talking directly to me. I also love how Teyve uses word of God, that he studies daily, to avert a gang of village hoodlums. The piece shares, with the reader, the times of living in exile in a place that is constantly being attacked.   

Turnip Tips

read the Jewish Literary Review

Words Defined:

worddefinition

pogroms An organized, often officially encouraged massacre or persecution of a minority group, especially one conducted against Jews.

Where to Find This Story

One can find the story in Shalom Aleichem Old Country Tales edited and compiled by the Children of Sholom Aleichem, and published in 1966. Although this book is out of print Amazon has a few copies. Also alibris listed that Powells had a hard bound copy for $2.24. The book would be a great addition in any personal library.