What's Happening?
Matt Goldman, an Emmy-winning writer known for his work on TV shows like 'Seinfeld' and 'Ellen,' has released his latest novel, 'The Prohibited.' This historical fiction piece delves into the Prohibition era in St. Paul, Minnesota, drawing inspiration
from his great-grandfather's liquor business, which was forced to close due to the 18th Amendment. The novel explores the impact of Prohibition on a St. Paul family, depicting how the city became a hub for criminal activity and bootlegging. Goldman also incorporates the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, creating a juxtaposition of these two significant historical events. The narrative follows the Kaner family, whose liquor store is lost, and features characters like Rose, who masterminds plans to protect her brother Willie from mob enforcers, and Emma, a suffragette navigating a strained marriage. Goldman's research into St. Paul's history, including the O'Connor Layover Agreement that allowed mobsters safe haven, enriches the story, bringing to life notorious speakeasies and the city's diverse population during the 1920s.
Why It's Important?
Matt Goldman's 'The Prohibited' offers a significant cultural contribution by re-examining a pivotal period in U.S. history through a fictional lens. The novel highlights the profound societal and economic shifts caused by Prohibition, demonstrating how a legislative act intended to improve public morals inadvertently fueled organized crime and transformed urban landscapes. By focusing on St. Paul, the book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the Prohibition era, particularly the city's unique role as a haven for criminals under the O'Connor Layover Agreement. This narrative can foster a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between law, society, and individual lives during a time of immense change. Furthermore, the inclusion of the women's suffrage movement alongside Prohibition underscores the concurrent struggles for social and political rights, providing a nuanced perspective on the era's challenges and advancements. The novel's exploration of themes like immigration, U.S. involvement in foreign wars, and civil rights resonates with contemporary issues, making historical events relevant to modern audiences.
What's Next?
Matt Goldman is scheduled to launch 'The Prohibited' with public events in Minnesota. He will be in conversation with author Lorna Landvik at Next Chapter Booksellers in St. Paul and will also appear at Barnes & Noble in Edina. These events will provide opportunities for readers to engage directly with Goldman and learn more about his inspiration and research for the novel. Beyond 'The Prohibited,' Goldman has a busy publishing schedule for the year, with 'Liar's Creek,' the first book in a new series featuring a soccer coach, already released in May, and 'Cold Blade,' a new installment in his Nils Shapiro crime series, set to launch in November. He is also actively working on a new series about a private investigator, indicating a continued prolific output in the coming months and years. These upcoming releases suggest that Goldman will continue to contribute to the literary landscape with diverse stories across different genres.
Beyond the Headlines
The novel 'The Prohibited' delves into the ethical and social complexities of the Prohibition era, illustrating how well-intentioned legislation can lead to unintended consequences, such as the rise of organized crime and the criminalization of ordinary citizens. Goldman's portrayal of the Kaner family's struggles and adaptations highlights the human cost of such policies, forcing individuals to navigate a new legal and moral landscape. The juxtaposition of Prohibition with the women's suffrage movement also brings to light the evolving roles and rights of women during this period. Characters like Rose and Emma embody the spirit of change and resilience, challenging traditional gender roles and fighting for their agency in a society undergoing significant transformation. The book implicitly raises questions about governmental overreach and individual freedoms, themes that remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about law and personal liberty. By exploring the 'melting pot' nature of St. Paul and the challenges faced by immigrants, the novel also touches upon enduring issues of cultural integration and social justice.
