The interest of the pretender soul is the same as the interest of the social life the society mechanism - Explain In Saul Bellow's - novella Seize the Day the statement The interest of the pretender soul is the same as the interest of the social life the society mechanism spotlights a central theme in the work the tension between individual desires and societal expectations This reflection exposes the inner struggle of the protagonist Tommy Wilhelm He faces the tension as he wrestles with his sense of self and societal pressures The pretender soul refers to the inner conflict within individuals who often wear masks or pretense in social interactions The main character Tommy Wilhelm represents this pretender soul as he tries to conform to societal norms and expectations He pretends to be successful and financially secure hiding his insecurities The assertion that this pretender soul shares the same interests