Seize the Day (1956) is a novel by Saul Bellow charting a day in the life of 44 year old Tommy Wilhelm. Wilhelm lives at a New York City hotel with his elderly fater, Dr Adler, after having separated from his wife following an affair he had. He has also recentently been laid off his sales job. Another guest at the hotel, Dr Tamkin - who claims to be a psychologist and a poet - convinces Wilhelm to enter a joint stock market venture that would result in Wilhelm losing his money.
Although the novel is about 1 day we learn much of Wilhelm's past: He once tried to make it as a screen actor in 1930's Hollywood. His "scout" Maurice Venice turned out to be a pimp. We also learn much about Dr Adler's relationship with a son he does not or perhaps cannot understand. Dr Adler is a hard working Jewish professor. He is stern and at times difficult and refuses to help Wilhelm.
While looking for Dr Tamkin, Wilhelm goins into a chapel where a funeral is taking place. The novel ends with Wilhelm crying at the stranger's funeral.
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