Prologue Summary

It is 1907, remarkable only because it purports to be the year of the largest number of immigrants to pass through Ellis Island. David Schearl and his mother are arriving to reunite with his father, Albert, who has been in New York for some time. In fact, David was born in Europe, and his father has never seen him. The reunion, however, is marred by several incidents, not the least of which is Albert's foul mood and his anger that his wife does not even recognize him. For her part, Genya is nervous but submissive. David, just a toddler, is frightened by this man he now will call "father."

Prologue Analysis

Reunions, especially of families, are generally joyous events. This one, however, is clearly meant as a foreshadowing of things to come. One is struck by the coldness with which Albert greets his wife...