The evolution of an artist: A critical analysis of Chaim Potok's 'My Name is Asher Lev'

Chaim Potok's novel My Name Is Asher Lev tells the story of an artistically gifted boy born into an orthodox Jewish home and community that encourage conformity and discourage creativity. While most research on this novel has focused on the clash between Jewish and Western cultures, the story also addresses themes related to artistic development applicable to all creative people.;This study explores a frequently overlooked aspect of My Name Is Asher Lev: the evolution of an artist, especially one facing familial and social resistance. How does the evolving artist respond when assailed by naysayers and cynics? What is involved in choosing to pursue art as a lifestyle versus accepting a more conventional path? How does a young artist fight against forces that promote conformity and stifle creativity? Drawing upon existing research, author interviews, and secondary sources, this paper probes Potok's exploration of the maturation process of the creative personality.