In this volume, Neiman argues that it is a dangerous mistake to make the assumption that being Left is the same as being "woke". The intellectual roots and resources of wokeism conflict with ideas that have guided the Left for more than 200 years: a commitment to universalism, a firm distinction between justice and power, and a belief in the possibility of progress. Without these ideas, the author contends, they will continue to undermine their own...

In early 19th century France the paroled prisoner Jean Valjean seeks redemption, regains his social standing, and rises to the rank of mayor. He encounters a beautiful but desperately ill woman named Fantine and cares for her daughter, Cosette, after her death. All the while he is obsessively pursued by the policeman Javert, who vows to make him pay for the crimes of his past.