1973 novel set in “the Bottom,” a neighborhood slated to be demolished for a golf course
Demolishing Dreams: A 1973 Novel’s Fight for a Neighborhood
This week’s crossword clue has me reminiscing about a book that left a lasting impression. It’s a 1973 novel set in a neighborhood teetering on the brink of destruction, a place known simply as “the Bottom.” The story unfolds against the backdrop of imminent development, with a golf course poised to replace the lives and memories woven into the fabric of this community.
While the novel itself is a poignant exploration of displacement and the fight for identity, the clue itself is a bit of a head-scratcher. It centers on this unique location, “the Bottom,” a name that speaks volumes about the marginalized status of the community it represents. This isn’t just a geographic location; it’s a symbol of a society’s blind spot, a place often forgotten or overlooked.
The novel delves into the lives of those who call this place home. We meet characters grappling with the complexities of their changing world, forced to confront the prospect of losing not just their homes but also the very essence of their existence. The tension between progress and tradition, between dreams and reality, pulsates through the narrative.
The author masterfully uses the setting to amplify the themes of resilience, community, and the power of collective memory. The fight to preserve “the Bottom” becomes a fight for the soul of a community, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure even in the face of overwhelming odds.
This crossword clue is a reminder that the stories we read often transcend the pages of a book. They invite us to think critically about the world around us, to see the hidden narratives woven into the fabric of our own communities. As you embark on your quest to solve this clue, remember the powerful story of a neighborhood facing an uncertain future. The answer may be elusive, but the impact of the novel itself remains deeply ingrained.
Available Answers:
SULA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 13 Aug 24, Tuesday