Analysis: The Chosen By Sarah Dessen

Personal Reaction The Chosen by Chaim Potok inspired me in multiple ways. While it may not share the same place in my heart as other novels and stories, I cannot deny the brilliance in this work. The theme of silence versus conversation really hits me. This mild obsession with silence started a few years ago. Somewhere between the age of eight and twelve I read a book by Sarah Dessen. This book, titled Just Listen, introduced the importance of silence to me with a single quote. “Silence is so freaking loud.” In a more somber way, this story also hits home to me, and quite literally too. Danny’s relationship with his father and Reuven’s relationship with his in a way could be compared to my own relationship with both of my parents. When I realized this it was very hard-hitting. I had a moment where I simply could not believe this connection. However the more I thought about it, I realized it was true to a point. My father is very stoic, and hardly shows emotion. When he does show emotions it comes across very intensely, be it in an angry or a distressed way. He relates to Reb Saunders in this way. My mother compares to David Malter similarly. She is very caring and will talk to me about anything. I know for a fact she has stressed out worrying about her children when they have been ill; however, Mom also has the …show more content…
It may not seem like the two would connect. However, they both create similar traits in Reuven and Danny. Both boys feel as though they will disappoint their fathers with the choices the wish to make for the future. Danny with his distaste to become a priest, and Reuven with his want to become one. Had the boys switched places, this story would not be in existence. Both themes create a sort of ‘what if” to blossom. It leaves the reader wondering if things will end happily for the two, or if the ending will be as bitter as it may seem in some