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Jackolope
06-10-2010, 12:39 PM
I have a project in AP English and it is on the "American Dream". I was just wondering if you think the "American Dream" is alive in modern America. I really just need a yes or no answer but if you want to elaborate, go ahead.
PeterL
06-10-2010, 01:59 PM
That is an interesting subject, but it doesn't mean anything until you define your version of the "dream". The "American dream" has changed over time, and I think that there are many versions of it. In one sense everyone has his own version of the "American dream", so it certainly exists in literature, but it is interpreted in different ways.
Jackolope
06-10-2010, 04:03 PM
Well I didn't want to go into the definition of the "American Dream" just for that reason. So I'll keep it broad and just ask if the very general idea of the "American Dream" is alive in modern America.
PeterL
06-10-2010, 04:37 PM
Well I didn't want to go into the definition of the "American Dream" just for that reason. So I'll keep it broad and just ask if the very general idea of the "American Dream" is alive in modern America.

Chicken! The argument could have been epic.
Scheherazade
06-10-2010, 06:30 PM
Whatever the American dream is, I know I am a little tired of hearing about it... Reading all the books written how it was supposed to come true but it did not... (It a little sounds like waiting for Godot).

I sometimes wish the authors just let go and concentrate on something else to write about...

So, to answer OP, yes, I do think it is very much alive in literature because the authors will not let be.

It is a little like Hollywood and war movies... When in doubt, delve into history and make another war movie.
Jackolope
06-10-2010, 10:52 PM
Well if you really want, here is my definition of the American Dream.

Most basic: The opportunity to succeed through struggle no matter the circumstances.
be known and express yourself for who you really are, no matter your circumstances
Non-conformism
Freedom
“Pursuit of Happiness”
Circumstances of birth do not restrict prosperity
Provide a better life for your children than you had yourself
A sense of security


Now for the question about if it is alive in modern America. I say yes it is.
America is still the land of economic opportunity, though not as much as in the 1950's.
Are there people who truly lead the lives they want to lead and follow their American Dream? Yes. Are there many? No.