Underworld by Don DeLillo. Summary of the book.

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Underworld by Don DeLillo: Summary of the Book

Underworld, by Don DeLillo, is a remarkable novel that has earned its place in the annals of modern literature. It is a sweeping account of the Cold War, told through the lens of a single family. It is a story of love and loss, of betrayal and forgiveness, and of the power of memory.

The novel follows the life of Nick Shay, an irresponsible man in his 20s who is struggling to make sense of his past and his place in the world. His life is interwoven with the stories of those around him, and the narrative reaches back to the 1950s and 1960s, to the events that shaped America’s history. As Nick’s life progresses, he discovers the importance of his family’s past, and the impact of his own choices.

Main Themes

At the heart of Underworld is the exploration of the Cold War era and its aftermath. DeLillo examines the fears and anxieties of the time, as well as its political and social implications. The novel also examines the power of memory and the way it shapes our identities and our relationships with the world. DeLillo also explores themes of love and loss, of betrayal and forgiveness, and of coming to terms with the past.

Curiosities and Interesting Facts

  • Underworld was published in 1997 and was an instant bestseller. It was shortlisted for the National Book Award and won the William Dean Howells Medal.
  • DeLillo drew inspiration from his own memories of growing up in the Bronx in the 1950s and 1960s.
  • The novel was adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 1999.
  • The book’s epigraph is a quote from the poet John Ashbery: “The world is a form of words, and its shape changes with the shape of the words.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Underworld about?

Underworld is a sweeping, epic novel about the Cold War era, told through the lens of a single family. It follows the life of Nick Shay, an irresponsible man in his 20s, and examines the power of memory, love and loss, betrayal and forgiveness, and coming to terms with the past.

Who wrote Underworld?

Underworld was written by Don DeLillo, an American novelist and playwright. He is best known for his works of postmodern literature, such as White Noise, Libra, and Mao II.

When was Underworld published?

Underworld was published in 1997 and was an instant bestseller. It was shortlisted for the National Book Award and won the William Dean Howells Medal.

What are the main themes in Underworld?

The main themes in Underworld are the exploration of the Cold War era, the power of memory, love and loss, betrayal and forgiveness, and coming to terms with the past.

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