THE ONLY PROBLEM by Muriel Spark; Putnam; 179 pages; $14.95
In his classic analysis of biblical narrative, The Great Code, Critic Northrop Frye finds that the Book of Job is "classified among the tragedies, but it is technically a comedy by virtue of its 'happy ending,' with Job restored to prosperity."
Muriel Spark's 17th novel is informed with that perception. Her central character is a pained, Job-like figure regarded in a comic light, as if, between losses, he is playing God's fool. It is a difficult role. Harvey Gotham is a wealthy scholar-dilettante who retires...
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