Kunkel, Benjamin: *1972

Indecision, 2005 - Before Reading

Reading the book is a bit like stepping into a mind that’s constantly second-guessing itself—so a little context helps a lot..
- 1. It’s more about thinking than plot
  Don’t expect a fast-moving story. The novel follows Dwight Wilmerding, but the real focus is his inner life—his doubts, loops of thought, and inability to commit.
  Example: Instead of dramatic action, you’ll get long stretches where Dwight debates whether he even feels anything authentic or is just performing emotions he’s learned from culture.
- 2. The central theme is modern indecision
  The book explores paralysis in a world of too many choices—career, love, identity.
  Example: Dwight is stuck between rekindling things with his ex (Aviva) and drifting into new relationships. He doesn’t decisively choose—he analyzes himself into inaction.
- 3. There’s a satirical take on self-help and pharmaceuticals
  A fictional drug called “Abulinix” promises to cure indecision. This lets the novel poke fun at quick-fix solutions to existential problems.
  Example: Dwight travels to Ecuador partly because of this drug, hoping a chemical solution will fix what is really a philosophical/emotional issue.
- 4. Expect philosophical and intellectual references
  The book draws on ideas from philosophy and psychology, especially about free will, authenticity, and identity.
  Example: Dwight often reflects in ways that echo existentialist concerns—like whether his choices are truly his own or shaped by external forces.
- 5. The narrator is unreliable (in a subtle way)
  You’re inside Dwight’s head, and he’s self-aware but not necessarily accurate about himself.
  Example: He might describe himself as deeply reflective, but the same passage can reveal avoidance or self-absorption if you read between the lines.
- 6. Humor is dry and ironic
  Even when Dwight is disentangled, the tone can be quietly funny.
  Example: His over-analysis of small social interactions (like reading too much into a casual remark) becomes absurd in a relatable way.
- 7. It reflects early-2000s “quarter-life crisis” culture
  Think post-college drift, vague career paths, and urban ennui.
  Example: Dwight works in a job he doesn’t care about, lives somewhat aimlessly, and feels disconnected despite being educated and privileged.
- 8. The Ecuador trip is symbolic, not just literal
  The shift in setting introduces questions about privilege, globalization, and whether changing location changes the self.
  Example: Even in a completely different environment, Dwight brings his indecision with him—suggesting the problem isn’t external.