Justice? You get justice in the next world, in this world you have the law

Justice? You get justice in the next world, in this world you have the law

William Gaddis, a renowned American novelist and playwright, is known for his complex and thought-provoking works that often explore themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. In his novel "A Frolic of His Own," Gaddis delves into the intricacies of the legal system and the concept of justice in a society governed by laws.

The quote "Justice? You get justice in the next world, in this world you have the law" encapsulates the central theme of the novel, as Gaddis challenges the notion of justice within the legal system. The protagonist, Oscar Crease, is a playwright who sues a major Hollywood studio for stealing his script. Throughout the novel, he becomes entangled in a web of legal battles, absurdities, and contradictions that ultimately lead him to question the very concept of justice.

Gaddis uses the character of Oscar Crease to highlight the flaws and limitations of the legal system in delivering true justice. Despite his efforts to seek retribution for the theft of his work, Oscar finds himself trapped in a bureaucratic nightmare where the law becomes a tool for manipulation and exploitation. The quote suggests that while justice may be a lofty ideal, the reality of the legal system is far more complex and often fails to deliver true justice to those who seek it.

Gaddis's exploration of justice in "A Frolic of His Own" reflects his broader critique of society and the human condition. Through his characters and their interactions with the legal system, he exposes the inherent contradictions and injustices that exist within a society governed by laws. The quote serves as a reminder that while the law may provide a framework for order and justice, it is ultimately a human construct that is subject to manipulation and interpretation.