Salinger şi fata cu părul roşcat

A PhD student teaches Salinger while he writes his thesis. His contract makes him teach each Monday in room 420. People from many fields join, not just those who study books. They must first read four short books by Salinger. They talk about his work, then start to share their lives.

Andrei Mocuța’s campus novel follows this class and its teacher. He is a quiet man with a dry wit. As his knowledge grows, he feels more open to hurt. The room has dust and fluorescent lights. Some talks feel tense; others show care. The group shares poetic thoughts and odd views. At times, no one speaks, yet the air feels charged. A young woman with red hair adds a quiet air of mystery.

The thesis helps explore the teacher’s inner life. Salinger raises questions about what it means to feel alone. His work also prompts thoughts on deep interest in something. It raises the wish to have someone who will listen. Reading helps people of different ages form bonds. It helps them put their feelings into words. Rules, forms, and college boards stay out of focus for the most part. The novel forms part of the EGO. PROZĂ series.