Ardain Isma
CSMS Magazine
Fiction holds a profound relevance in literature as it mirrors reality. Authors craft their stories with a specific audience in mind, whether delving into genres like romance, literary fiction, historical tales, fantasy realms, or political dramas. The efficacy of their craft lies in its ability to resonate with this audience, be it broad or niche. The readership, in turn, evaluates the narrative’s significance.
Among contemporary writers who have chosen realistic fiction as their weapon of choice in literature, Mark Budman cannot be ignored, for he has dedicated a large portion of his writing to shedding light on the immigrant experience—its joys, pains, diversity, and the myriad facets of human existence it encompasses. His novel, “The Most Excellent Immigrant,” which I had the pleasure of reading, epitomizes this endeavor. Comprising 22 stories, it showcases Budman’s mastery in not only interpreting the complexities of human life but also elucidating the underlying reasons behind them.
Budman employs metaphors, similes, and allegories laced with boundless humor to captivate readers from the very first word to the closing sentence. Whether following a Certified Interpreter of Dreams and Afflictions on a quest for buried treasure within a set of pillows or witnessing Russian immigrants striving for acceptance, each story in this collection possesses the enchanting ability to transport readers to a realm where magic realism and unvarnished reality coalesce.
It’s within this realm of marvelous realism, reminiscent of the works of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Alejo Carpentier, that Budman’s narratives find their context and resonance.
American immigrant stories, I must say, plays such a significant role in literature because of their ability to capture the essence of human experience, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Here, it is fair to say “The Most Excellent Immigrant” encapsulates this fact through the portrayal of struggles, triumphs, and cultural amalgamation that define the American identity.
Mark Budman’s novel offers a unique lens through which readers can explore universal themes of identity and belonging. Whether fleeing war-torn countries, seeking economic opportunity, or pursuing freedom of expression, immigrants often grapple with the challenge of reconciling their past with their present reality. This internal conflict resonates with readers across diverse backgrounds, fostering empathy and understanding. As an immigrant, I’ve lived this reality.
Although not fully recognized an effective genre in literature—usually falling into the category of literary fiction—immigrant narratives enrich the literary landscape by introducing diverse perspectives and voices. Through vivid imagery, rich language, and nuanced characterization, these stories provide a glimpse into the complexities of immigrant experiences, challenging stereotypes and expanding cultural awareness. By showcasing the richness of immigrant cultures and traditions such the ones found in this novel, literature becomes a powerful tool for fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation.
Take, for instance, the passage on page 73 of “No Country for Flying Men,” where the author muses, “most people fly in their dreams, especially when they are young, but the interpreter never loses this ability with age.” Here, the act of flying assumes a metaphorical significance, suggesting that as we journey through life, aging becomes inevitable. Flying, in this context, hinges upon our cognitive faculties and our determination to persevere.
However, what makes “The Most Excellent Immigrant” compelling is its portrayal of the existential realities faced by Russian immigrants, particularly in the Massachusetts region. Characters like the interpreter’s wife, Piotr, and the Russian waitress, who offers a resigned smile indicative of her struggles as a below-minimum-wage employee (as seen on page 21), are intricately crafted. This narrative delves into the nuances of their experiences, offering readers a window into the challenges and triumphs of Russian immigrants in America.
“The Most Excellent Immigrant” contributes to a burgeoning genre in American literature: immigrant fiction. Through its exploration of the immigrant experience, it sheds light on the complexities of cultural assimilation, identity, and belonging. As someone who thoroughly enjoyed this book, I found it to be a captivating and enlightening read.
In essence, immigrant stories resonate because they speak to the fundamental aspects of the human condition: the quest for belonging, the resilience in the face of adversity, and the celebration of diversity. By amplifying these voices, literature serves not only as a mirror reflecting society but also as a bridge connecting individuals across cultures and generations. To this understanding, “The Most Excellent Immigrant” delivers!
Mark Budman is the author of several critically acclaimed books, including “My Life at First Try”, “An Accidental American Odessey.” To learn more about Mark Budman’s literary works, you can follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/budman_mark
You can also visit his website: http://markbudman.com/
Twice Mark Budman was my guest in “The Conversation”, my weekly podcast on YouTube. Below, please watch our latest conversation.
Note: Ardain Isma is the Chief-Editor of CSMS Magazine. He is a prolific writer and author of several books, including Midnight at Noon, Bittersweet Memories of Last Spring, and Last Spring was Bittersweet. You can order the books by clicking on the links above.
