Jonathan Franzen’s “Crossroads” / Newmag Publishes a Masterpiece of 21st-Century American Fiction in Armenian (trailer)

Born in Illinois in 1959, Franzen pursued further studies in Berlin before returning to the United States to begin his professional career. He maintained a disciplined writing schedule, working eight hours a day, while also engaging in research and following global events.

Franzen’s literary career began with his 1988 debut, “The 27th City”, but he gained international recognition with the 2001 novel “The Corrections”. This breakthrough work brought worldwide acclaim, sold millions of copies, and earned the American National Literary Award.

Franzen is regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary American literature, capable of reshaping our understanding of human relationships. “Crossroads” explores complex family dynamics, including father-son confrontations, human flaws, mental crises, and societal and religious prejudices. Its characters are deeply human, offering stories that provoke reflection, empathy, forgiveness, and understanding.

Set in 1970s America, a period Franzen describes as “the hangover of the sixties,” the novel portrays a generation whose dreams largely went unfulfilled. It examines inevitable difficulties, interpersonal and psychological conflicts, childhood trauma, family crises, selfishness, and the absence of love, all rendered with profound psychological insight that invites readers to identify with the characters.

The novel also engages with Christian values, faith, and sin. While Franzen describes himself as a “secret unbelieving Christian,” he uses Crossroads to offer a fresh perspective on Christianity and moral reflection. Themes of family, loneliness, existential crisis, and vulnerable relationships are central, explored through detailed, realistic characters and intricately crafted narratives.

“Crossroads” is widely regarded as one of the greatest American novels of the 21st century, compelling readers to reconsider relationships with spouses, children, parents, colleagues, and themselves. Its complexity mirrors the intricacies of life itself.

The Armenian-language edition of the novel will be presented on September 5 at the Yerevan International Book Festival, in the Frescoes Hall of the National Gallery of Armenia. The presentation will feature:

• Margarit Sargsyan – book editor
• Anush Sedrakyan – literary critic
• Aram Araratyan – international relations lecturer and literature enthusiast
• Artavazd Yeghiazaryan – editor-in-chief of Yerevan magazine
• Manu Iritsyan – Newmag’s multimedia producer and moderator

During the festival, the book will be available at the Newmag pavilion at a special discounted price.