Abe Ravelstein is a brilliant professor at a prestigious Midwestern university, renowned for shaping the minds of future political leaders. Living extravagantly and well beyond his means, he surprises even himself when a book of his convictions, encouraged by his close friend Chick, turns him into a millionaire. In gratitude, Ravelstein urges Chick to write his memoir, capturing the essence of his life and beliefs.
During a celebratory trip to Paris, the two friends share profound reflections on mortality, philosophy, history, love, and friendships, both past and present. Their lively conversations, peppered with nostalgic vaudeville routines, contrast sharply with the somber reality they face upon returning home, as Ravelstein battles AIDS and Chick encounters his own brush with death.
Heartfelt and deeply insightful, Ravelstein is an elegy to friendship and intellectual passion, blending Bellow’s signature wit with poignant reflections on life, loss, and legacy.
