Little Man, What Now?

Content Warning: The source text and this guide discuss antisemitism and substance misuse. In addition, the source text uses offensive language regarding Jewish people, which is replicated in this guide only in direct quotes of the source material.

“I bet we share the same taste in everything, isn’t it lovely?”

Emma’s comment to Johannes reveals the lack of familiarity between them. They have only known each other for a short time, and they are marrying because Emma is pregnant. Since they share the same taste in jewelry, however, Emma is certain that they will share the same taste in everything.

“I didn’t know you were like this. I thought you were gentle.”

Johannes and Emma still do not know each other well. As they enter the new apartment, Emma’s negative reaction shows a side to her personality that surprises Johannes. He is not only seeing Emma in a new light but also his marriage, realizing that she is not so gentle and their marriage not so idealized as he might have assumed.

“I’d never be able to forgive you.”

The one demand Johannes makes in his relationship with Emma is based on pride. She must never ask him to return to the Bergmann store, he says, because he would never be able to forgive her. To Johannes, pride is an essential part of existence, and he cannot forgive a wife who does not respect him. He will eventually return to Bergmann to beg for his job, but not because Emma asks him. Rather, he will do so out of desperation, suggesting that he will never forgive himself.