“Veselija” Foreshadows the Triumph of Capitalism

In Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle, the opening scene of the Lithuanian “veselija” comprises virtually all of the key elements of the text as a whole. The traditional concept of the veselija, as it was performed in the Lithuanian homeland, can be related to the Socialist aspects of The Jungle. The fact that “everyone contributes” and that “no one goes hungry” posits that everything is done for the collective good, an important tenet of Socialism. However, it is clear from the start of the novel that the more insidious aspects of Capitalism have already infiltrated the tradition of the veselija, placing importance on the individual's needs and the exploitation of opportunities like free food and drink at the wedding. The fact that many of the guests at the veselija do not contribute (because they cannot afford to, which is a direct result of the influence of the Capitalistic environment) reveals that their very traditions and “identities” have already been compromised. Of course, this sort of greed and exploitation is depicted as being a reality in Lithuania, as well; however, there is a vast gulf between the illusion of prosperity that is projected by the U.S. and the reality that this illusion is carried on the backs of millions of struggling and overworked individuals.
Unfortunately, the Socialist message delivered at the end of The Jungle is not quite convincing, especially to modern day readers. More importantly, it seems unrealistic to think that the traditional values that were a part of the veselija could be restored when they have already been so thoroughly corrupted from within by the Capitalist system.