Son, anything can happen to anyone," my father told me, "but it usually doesn't.
In Philip Roth's "The Plot Against America," the protagonist reflects on a conversation with his father, who underscores the unpredictability of life. The father conveys a comforting yet realistic perspective, suggesting that while remarkable events can occur to anyone, they are generally unlikely. This sentiment highlights a blend of caution and reassurance as the father seeks to prepare his son for the unexpected twists that life can present.
This idea resonates deeply within the narrative, exploring themes of uncertainty and the fragility of safety in a volatile world. The father’s words serve as a reminder that while fear of the unknown can loom large, the ordinary course of life tends to remain stable for most. Roth uses this dynamic to frame the broader social and political changes that affect the family, showing how personal experiences are often intertwined with the larger historical context.