In this article we discuss Franzen's latest novel, Crossroads, by addressing its philosophical depth and investigating its value within the author's literary path. First, we intend to reconstruct the genealogical operation proposed by Franzen, highlighting the most relevant theoretical elements through a comparison with the categories of Macintyre’s After Virtue. In the second section we focus on the various characteristics that define choice and decision-making in the novel, while outlining a model of analysis through which we can frame the question of choice within contemporary American literature. Finally, we outline the main forms of critical resistance identified by the author through an examination of recurring thematic choices in the writings as well as the recognition of specific stylistic approaches. By following this route, we hope to draw attention to the limits and contradictions that characterize the interaction between the individual and society and shed light on the challenges associated with conceptualizing the modern individual within authentic social contexts.
