In my review for the LA Review of Books, I delve into George Prochnik’s intriguing and beautiful book, Stranger in a Strange Land. This work masterfully intertwines Prochnik’s memoir with the intellectual biography of Gershom Scholem, a renowned Kabbalah scholar. Scholem, a pivotal figure in Jewish intellectual history, revolutionized the study of Kabbalah, transforming it from a mystical footnote into a serious academic subject. His journey from 1920s Weimar Germany to Jerusalem marked a significant shift in Jewish scholarship and identity.
Prochnik’s journey, alongside his wife Anne, to Jerusalem in the 1990s is contrasted with Scholem’s earlier migration in the 1920s. While Scholem found scholarly success, the Prochniks grappled with financial and marital challenges in a complex Zionist society.
The book explores themes of Jewish identity and the difficulties of establishing a life in Jerusalem. Prochnik offers a critical perspective on Scholem’s work and reflects on his own struggles to find academic footing.
What makes this book stand out is its intimate portrayal of George and Anne’s relationship amid societal pressures and the dilemmas of raising a family in a morally intricate environment. Their story is a deeply personal lens into broader themes of faith and tradition.
“Stranger in a Strange Land” is a compelling blend of biography and memoir, providing a unique view on faith, identity, and the challenges of life in Jerusalem. It’s an emotionally rich and intellectually engaging read.
George Prochnik image credit: LA Review of Books
Read my review, A Tapestry of Fame and Failure, on LA Review of Books.
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