Rich Man Poor Man – Irwin Shaw

Description

Rich Man, Poor Man by Irwin Shaw is a sweeping family saga that charts the lives of two brothers against the backdrop of post-war America. First published in 1970, this bestselling novel explores themes of ambition, rebellion, and the complexities of family loyalty through the contrasting journeys of Rudy and Tom Jordache. Rudy, the determined and pragmatic brother, climbs the social and financial ladder, becoming the “rich man” of the title, while Tom, the troubled and rebellious sibling, lives on the margins as the “poor man,” grappling with a violent past and uncertain future.

Spanning decades, Rich Man, Poor Man delves into the intimate struggles and public triumphs of its characters, reflecting the broader cultural and social changes of mid-20th century America. Irwin Shaw masterfully captures the tension between conformity and defiance, duty and desire, in a story that is as moving as it is dramatic.

A must-read for fans of multi-generational sagas and classic American fiction, Rich Man, Poor Man remains a powerful tale of love, rivalry, and resilience.