Who Paul Riesling is
Paul Riesling sells roofing in a city that measures success through possessions, business and the approval of others. His earlier wish to become a violinist sets him apart from the values Babbitt's circle usually celebrates.
What Paul Riesling wants
Paul longs to escape an unhappy marriage, and his quarrelsome home life grows increasingly painful. He and Babbitt travel to the woods of Maine, away from their wives and the pressures of Zenith. There they fish, walk and talk with a local guide, while Babbitt feels a freedom missing from his usual routine.
Paul Riesling and the others in the story
Paul has known Babbitt since college and offers a friendship unlike the sociability of clubs and business lunches. With him, Babbitt can put aside his public confidence and speak more honestly about his life. Their closeness reveals how little room Zenith's expectations leave for private hopes and open feeling.
Questions
Who is Paul Riesling in Babbitt?
Paul Riesling is a roofing salesman and Babbitt's oldest friend, with an earlier ambition to become a violinist.
What does Paul Riesling want?
He wants relief from his unhappy marriage and a chance to get away from its quarrels.
Why is Paul Riesling important to Babbitt?
Paul gives Babbitt someone he can speak to without performing the role of a successful businessman. Their friendship offers an alternative to the shallow agreement of his club life.