Summary

The novel opens in Paterson, New Jersey in the 1930s. Joseph Korzeniowski narrates from a first-person perspective in this chapter, although the narrative point of view transitions several times throughout the novel. Joseph is an only child and he deeply resents his parents’ contentment with a simple and boring life. His parents generally act angry and resentful towards him, as well. Joseph’s parents work at a local mill and live on constant schedule of work, home life, and church. Joseph fills him free time as a general troublemaker in the neighborhood, stealing, trespassing, and committing petty vandalisms. After graduating high school in 1936, Joseph goes to live in New York City. He loves the city’s busy atmosphere and sense of liveliness and enterprise. He acquires a job as a grocery delivery boy, and he has a brief sexual affair with a maid he...