The motif of Anti-Semitism
By 1947 Brooklyn was a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities unfortunately the cultural differences bred prejudice and discrimination. The conflict in the story occurs after a violent gang begins terrorizing the Jewish communities. The young protagonist gradually grasps these social constructs that do not make sense to him. Through his understanding, the story delves into the anti-Semitism that still persisted after the end of World War II.
Baseball game as an allegory
The backdrop of the story is the drama that surrounded Jackie Robinson joining the Brooklyn Dodgers. Michael and the Rabbi follow the baseball games as the young boy teaches him more about the sport. During a game, Michael uses baseball to describe the essence of America with the breaking of the color barrier in the league as a triumph. Moreover, the drunk and racist spectators among the masses as everything that is wrong with the nation. Since it is a story about prejudice and racism the game encompasses the dynamic of American society.
Captain Marvel as a symbol
Michael is a typical young boy infatuated with pop culture and comic books. He is fascinated by the Captain Marvel comics and idolizes the abilities the superheroes possess. Thus, after witnessing religious-based violence against a Jewish man he is compelled to be heroic like the character. As he sees more violence in the neighborhood he is curious to learn about mysticism to save the victims. Eventually, he summons the avenging angel Golem from the Jewish folklore to avenge the mistreated ones. Thus, the comic book symbolizes his belief in magical powers and mysticism that can be beckoned.
The motif of Jewish mysticism
The unlikely friendship between Michael and the Jewish Rabbi finds them learn about each other’s cultures. Henceforth Michael becomes much more acquainted with Jewish rituals and folklores as they bond. The story incorporates the fables and narratives in the book of Kabbalah that highlight Jewish mysticism. The climax of the story finds Michael fascinated with summoning the mystical creature Golem that protects the Jewish people.
