Navigating the Complexities of Wealth and Morality in Rumaan Alam's "Entitlement"

Rumaan Alam's latest novel, "Entitlement," delves into the intricate interplay between wealth, power, and the moral compass of its characters. Alam's exploration of these themes invites readers to confront the nuances of privilege, the corrupting influence of money, and the elusive pursuit of purpose in a world where the lines between virtue and vice are often blurred.

A Captivating Exploration of Wealth, Morality, and the Human Condition

Navigating the Allure and Pitfalls of Wealth

At the heart of "Entitlement" lies the story of Brooke, a 33-year-old Black woman who finds herself adrift in life until she crosses paths with the wealthy and eccentric billionaire, Asher Jaffee. Asher, driven by a desire to "give it all away" and "be good," takes Brooke under his wing as an assistant and adviser, tasking her with distributing his vast fortune to worthy causes. As Brooke navigates this new world of opulence and privilege, she is forced to confront her own relationship with money and the allure of wealth.The narrative is punctuated by a cast of characters who are, if not outright wealthy, at least comfortable with their affluence. From the successful plastic surgeon with his polo horses to Brooke's aunt Paige, who has dined with the elite, the reader is immersed in a world where wealth is the norm, not the exception. This setting serves as a backdrop for Alam's exploration of the corrupting influence of money and the moral dilemmas that arise when one's sense of self-worth becomes inextricably linked to financial status.

The Corrupting Influence of Wealth and Power

As Brooke's relationship with Asher deepens, she begins to absorb his belief systems, which prioritize "gain or loss" over traditional notions of virtue and sin. This shift in perspective sets the stage for Brooke's gradual descent into a world where the pursuit of wealth and status takes precedence over her moral compass.Alam's skillful storytelling highlights the insidious nature of this transformation, as Brooke's initial hesitation to accept Asher's generous financial gift gives way to a growing sense of entitlement and a willingness to compromise her principles. The narrative explores the ways in which wealth can erode one's sense of self and the importance of maintaining a strong moral foundation in the face of temptation.

The Imbalance Between Needs, Wants, and Deserts

Interwoven throughout the novel is Alam's exploration of the imbalance between what we need, what we want, and what we believe we deserve. As Brooke navigates her newfound wealth and privilege, she is forced to confront her own sense of entitlement and the disconnect between her material circumstances and her emotional well-being.The narrative delves into the ways in which our desires and perceived entitlements can become distorted by the trappings of wealth, leading to a disconnect between our true needs and the pursuit of material excess. Alam's nuanced approach to this theme invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with money and the ways in which it can shape our values and priorities.

The Complexities of Moral Reckoning

In the final stretches of the novel, Alam presents readers with a reckoning for the central characters, as the consequences of their actions and the weight of their moral choices come to bear. This narrative shift provides a sense of resolution, but not necessarily redemption, as the characters are forced to confront the complexities of their own moral compasses.Alam's exploration of this theme underscores the idea that moral reckoning is rarely a straightforward process, but rather a tangled web of competing priorities, personal biases, and the ever-present influence of wealth and power. The novel's conclusion leaves readers with a sense of unease, inviting them to grapple with the nuances of ethical decision-making and the challenges of maintaining one's integrity in a world that often rewards the pursuit of self-interest.