How does isaac bashevis singer use direct characterization to develop the main character in "the day i got lost"? how does isaac bashevis singer use direct characterization to develop the main character in "the day i got lost"? the taxi driver expresses astonishment that professor shlemiel doesn't know his own address. professor shlemiel's wife, long familiar with his behavior, warns him, "now, don't forget your address." professor shlemiel calls himself "forgetful" and says he's always blundering and losing things. professor shlemiel, when lost, ponders the chicken-and-egg problem.