What significant societal issue does Henry Roth's novel "Call It Sleep" address?

Henry Roth's "Call It Sleep" delves deeply into the immigrant experience, specifically focusing on the life of a Jewish family navigating their new reality in early 20th-century America. The novel paints a vivid picture of the struggles, hopes, and disillusionments faced by immigrants as they seek to find their identity in a foreign land. Through the protagonist, David, readers witness the challenges that arise from cultural dislocation, language barriers, and the quest for belonging amidst an often hostile environment.

The narrative captures the nuances of assimilating into American society while grappling with the remnants of one’s cultural heritage, making it a poignant exploration of the immigrant struggle. These themes resonate throughout the novel, illustrating how individuals and families adapt, transform, or sometimes succumb to the pressures of their new surroundings. Roth's work highlights the broader implications of immigration, underscoring not only the personal battles faced by newcomers but also the societal challenges that arise when different cultures intersect. In this way, the immigrant experience is not just a backdrop but a central theme that informs every aspect of the characters' lives and decisions.