Howard Jacobson's 'Howl' Presents a Tragicomic Portrait of Jewish Despair
In his new novel 'Howl,' Howard Jacobson crafts a compelling narrative centered on Ferdinand Draxler, a suburban primary school headteacher navigating the turbulent waters of antisemitism in London. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which serve as a catalyst for Draxler's escalating anger and guilt.
A Character at the Brink of Madness
Jacobson is renowned for depicting men, often Jewish, pushed to their limits, and Draxler is no exception. This character embodies a blend of neurosis and obsession, engaging in exhaustive debates that alienate those around him. Unlike Allen Ginsberg's seekers of enlightenment, Draxler's turmoil stems not from psychedelic adventures but from deep-seated emotions triggered by contemporary events.
The novel explores how Draxler feels increasingly disconnected from his city and society as pro-Palestinian marches disrupt his life. His distress peaks when he discovers his daughter participating in protests, tearing down images of hostages. This moment highlights the personal and political fractures within his world.
Confronting Controversy Head-On
Jacobson does not shy away from controversy in 'Howl.' He anticipates that some readers may find the content enraging or morally repulsive, yet he confronts these reactions directly. Through Draxler, Jacobson argues that the October 7 attacks have unleashed unchecked Jew-hatred, providing antisemites with a justification for their prejudices.
Despite its uncomfortable themes, the novel retains Jacobson's signature comic touch. Draxler's interactions with his deputy headmaster, a convert to Judaism who now rejects Israel, and his Gentile wife, who shows immense patience, add layers of irony and humor. His infatuation with a Jewish woman in a park, who is also loved by his brother, further complicates the narrative.
Grammar as a Metaphor for Order
A key element in Draxler's character is his obsession with grammar, particularly a sentence about a honeysuckle hedge and nesting linnets. He believes that proper grammar mirrors a logical, ordered world where thoughts can flow coherently. In the chaotic, 'ungrammatical' times he inhabits, this fixation becomes a metaphor for his struggle to find meaning and stability.
As Draxler stalks London streets, documenting antisemitism and leading pupils to paint over graffiti, readers are left to balance sympathy for his pain with alienation from his risky behavior. The novel poses a poignant question: Is Draxler descending into madness, or is he merely responding to a maddening era?
'Howl' is published by Jonathan Cape and priced at £20, offering a profound exploration of identity, conflict, and the human condition in modern Britain.
