As thrilling as it is annoying,

the book reads like a rant, and is clearly intended to shock. It's not fair to judge it for not being more coherently argued, just as it would be absurd to complain that Bach keyboard music is bad because it can't fill the dance floor. This work is meant to have a powerful impact, to unsettle, to upset, and to hold up a series of very uncomfortable mirrors to a mostly Jewish readership. There is a great deal of criticism aimed at so-called "self-hating Jews," and I believe Mamet does a better job than many in explaining why this oxymoronic epithet might actually be appropriate.

The writing here most reminds me of Rieff's late work, such as "My Life among the Deathworks: Illustrations of the Aesthetics of Authority." Both works are fragmented and filled with rage at a culture that seems unable to avoid hating Jews. They both offer stunning reinterpretations of cultural texts, but they are also a bit too consistent to be completely convincing. Mamet is more focused on the Jewish "race traitors," at least in this book.

Don't misunderstand me. I think Mamet has more or less accurately captured a lot of anti-Judaism, with a psychological depth that is truly remarkable and a refreshing departure from the unconvincing everyday rationalizations. However, like much literary analysis, it is open to the criticism that "Yes, that's a very nice way of putting it, but it's simply not the case." In the end, with him attacking from all directions at once, I don't even think David Mamet agrees with everything he writes in this book.

Even though I did enjoy it, I do think the book would have been improved by better editing. There are quite a few typos and many phrasings that are unnecessarily difficult to understand. I actually like the fact that the book has the feel of a brilliant, rambling, raging series of orations. It's a suitable style for the subject matter. But since it is a book, there's no harm in modifying the phrasing of the orations until they are more accessible.

At the end of the day, given Mamet's scathing critique of "I'm Jewish but..." Jews and his continued deep loyalty to the Reform movement, I can't help but wonder, who does he talk to at kiddush?

Mamet has an extraordinary way with words. Whether I'm deeply engrossed in reading his plays or a book such as this one, he never fails to keep me thoroughly entertained. His writing style is so captivating that it draws me in and holds my attention from start to finish.

Although I might not necessarily concur with every single thing that he has to say, I must admit that he is extremely thought-provoking. His ideas and perspectives make me stop and really examine my own thinking. He presents a myriad of thoughts and concepts that force me to consider different viewpoints and make choices within the vast landscape of my own mind.

In my opinion, that is precisely what a good book should do. It should challenge our preconceived notions, make us think deeply, and inspire us to grow and evolve intellectually. Mamet's work undoubtedly achieves this, and for that, I am truly grateful.

A total waste of time. Such a disappointment. This is my proper view coming after my finals. I had put in so much effort and hard work, but the results were far from what I had expected. It felt as if all my time and energy had been flushed down the drain. I was left with a sense of frustration and dissatisfaction.

I had studied day and night, memorized countless facts and figures, and practiced numerous sample questions. But it seemed that none of it mattered in the end. The questions on the exam were either too difficult or not what I had prepared for. I felt completely unprepared and caught off guard.

As I walked out of the exam hall, I knew that I had failed. I was disappointed in myself for not being able to perform better. I had let myself down and all those who had believed in me. But I also knew that I had to pick myself up and move on. There would be other opportunities and I would do better next time.

Pretty interesting read and I really appreciated the bold wording. It caught my attention right away and added an extra emphasis to certain points. At times, it might have seemed a bit redundant, but that didn't really detract from the overall quality of the piece. In fact, I quite liked the way the author wrote. His style was engaging and easy to follow, which made it a pleasure to read. I found myself getting lost in the story and really enjoying the experience. Overall, I would say that it was a good read and I would recommend it to others who are looking for something interesting and well-written.

This book is crafted as a sort of open letter addressed to David Mamet's coreligionist brothers and sisters who have strayed from their faith. It is segmented into several concise snippets, with each one handling a distinct dilemma. (This is the same format he employed for The Secret Knowledge.)

Coming from an evangelical background, I discovered that some of his arguments were hard to fathom. Many (nonetheless) were universal; especially when it comes to human longing. I felt that Mamet ascribed too much of the anti-Semitism he perceives in the world to the outdated prejudices of Christians, particularly in relation to the crucifixion of Jesus. I am a 41-year-old male who has attended some form of Christian worship at least 50% of all the Sundays in my life. I have been to Catholic Mass and Lutheran, Methodist, Apostolic, Baptist, and countless other non-denominational and denominational Christian services, and never once have I heard a pastor, priest, etc. blame the Jews for the death of Jesus! He also made a significant error in asserting that Jesus was condemned on the Sabbath, after Good Friday. (See page 34 – A Hot Hen’s Kiss) This is simply untrue as Jesus was crucified BEFORE the Sabbath, early on Good Friday.

Some things you ought to know. David Mamet is astonishingly intelligent. I would have profited from having a dictionary on hand. I mostly trudged forward in the hope that the context of the paragraph would assist in defining a difficult word. Sometimes it did, sometimes it didn't. I suspect I will need to read this book several more times to fully appreciate the author's insights. He is brilliant. Although many arguments would sink in, I am incapable of beginning to express them to others. Read this book during that time of the day when you are the sharpest.

Powerful, poignant, well thought out, well argued. These are the words that come to mind when I think about DM.

Before, I may have had a somewhat limited perception of DM. But now, after experiencing and understanding it more deeply, I hold it in a whole new light.

DM has the power to move people, to touch their hearts and make them think. It presents ideas and arguments in a way that is both engaging and convincing.

It is not just a form of communication, but a means of expressing complex emotions and thoughts.

Whether it is through its powerful imagery, its poignant storytelling, or its well-constructed arguments, DM has the ability to leave a lasting impression.

I am now truly amazed by the depth and breadth of DM, and I look forward to exploring it further and seeing what new insights and perspectives it can offer.

This is a dense, at times impenetrable book that delves into the curse of the modern liberal Jew. It is extremely apropos at this moment in time, especially with Israel on the ground in Gaza. The author's perspective has truly made me think twice about my usual wussy liberal response.

Often, we liberals tend to approach complex issues with a certain set of assumptions and knee-jerk reactions. However, this book challenges those very assumptions and forces us to reevaluate our stance.

It makes us question whether our liberal ideals are truly being served in all situations or if we are simply being too soft and not taking into account the full complexity of the issues at hand.

As I read through the pages, I found myself confronted with ideas that I had never considered before. It has opened my eyes to a new way of thinking and has made me more aware of the need to approach these issues with a more critical and open mind.

Overall, this book has been a thought-provoking read that has had a profound impact on my views and beliefs. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the complex relationship between modern liberalism and Judaism in the context of the current geopolitical situation.

So, let me get this straight: thinking critically about Israel is anti-Semitic?

I have a real problem with the idea that simply because I embrace my religious and cultural identity as a Jew, it means I must blindly support the political agenda of a country like Israel, with which I have no real personal connection. Israel, which has been known to routinely violate human rights in the name of "defending itself."

While I don't deny that anti-Semitism is a very real and serious issue (and let's be clear, when we talk about anti-Semitism, it should also include anti-Arab sentiment as Arabs are also technically Semitic), it is by no means an excuse to persecute others.

If, as Mamet seems to suggest, all Jews should embrace Israel as an integral part of their religion, then it follows that we, as Jews, should be prepared to grapple with the moral and political implications that come with it. We shouldn't simply fall back on a hysterical persecution complex. This struggle is, in fact, an essential part of being Jewish, just like those who "wrestle" with God in our religious traditions.

This guy, Mamet, seems to be nothing more than a chauvinistic windbag who has a thesaurus at his disposal but perhaps lacks a deeper understanding of the complex issues at hand.

An academic perspective on this topic offers a unique and in-depth exploration. It may present a somewhat challenging read, as it delves into complex ideas and theories. However, within this academic discourse, there are several very interesting and controversial points that have the potential to be highly thought-provoking.

These points can stimulate critical thinking and encourage readers to question their existing beliefs and assumptions. They may also open up new avenues of research and discussion, as scholars and thinkers engage with the ideas presented.

While the academic nature of the topic may make it seem inaccessible at times, taking the time to understand and engage with these ideas can be a rewarding experience. It can expand our knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, and help us to develop a more nuanced and sophisticated perspective.

I did not expect to agree with almost anything in this book.

However, to my surprise, I did. And that was not only unsettling but also damn interesting.

Mamet is way to the right of me in his views and beliefs. But despite our differences, I was still moved by what he had to say in this book.

It made me realize that sometimes, even when we come from different ideological camps, there can still be something valuable and thought-provoking that we can take away.

This experience has also taught me to be more open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives, even if they initially seem at odds with my own.

In conclusion, while I may not have expected it, this book has had a significant impact on me and has challenged me to think more deeply about my own beliefs and values.

An interesting perspective can truly enhance our understanding and perception of the world around us. It allows us to see things from a different angle, opening up new possibilities and ideas. It's like having a key that unlocks hidden doors of knowledge and creativity.

Moreover, an incredible vocabulary is a powerful tool. It enables us to express our thoughts and feelings with precision and clarity. With a rich vocabulary, we can paint vivid pictures in the minds of our listeners or readers, making our communication more engaging and impactful.

To build an impressive vocabulary, it's a great idea to carry a dictionary with you. Whether it's a physical one or a digital app, a dictionary is always there to provide definitions, synonyms, and antonyms. You can look up words you're not familiar with, expand your word bank, and improve your language skills.

So, embrace an interesting perspective, cultivate an incredible vocabulary, and don't forget to carry a dictionary. These three elements will surely enrich your life and make you a more confident and effective communicator.

David Mamet's exploration of Jewish pride and self-loathing is a complex and thought-provoking journey. His brief defense meanders at times, but like his drama and film, his messages prick our complacency.

He argues that the self-loathing of some secular Jews has roots in the "wicked son" of the Seder ritual. He questions the Jews who idolize non-Jewish figures and traditions while neglecting their own.

Mamet challenges those who denounce the IDF's actions, asking for a better plan to defend Israel. He also links leftist denunciations to the age-old "blood libel" against Jews.

However, his psychological explanations for Jewish self-loathing are less firm. He delves into tangents about Santa Claus and paganism, struggling to understand the "conflicted winter Jews."

Despite this, Mamet finds solace and strength in his Jewish heritage. He believes that Judaism's core mystery engenders fear and hatred, but also provides a sense of certainty and community.

The short chapters of the book roam about the self-hatred analysis without a clear resolution. The remaining two-thirds have their moments, but the topics blur and scatter.

Mamet often criticizes Jews who have adopted other spiritual practices, but there are many ways for Jews to practice Judaism that go beyond the conventional norms.

Overall, Mamet's assault against complacency is refreshing, but his book leaves many questions unanswered. Like Fallaci and Levy, he takes on an unpopular cause and will likely incite criticism. But his voice, and those like it, deserve an audience.

One finishes this book still wondering why Mamet shifted towards a more assertive embrace of his heritage. Perhaps his idiosyncratic gestures, like eating a bacon sandwich, are part of his own way of being Torah-true in today's world.