“Americans absolutely believe in this idea of American exceptionalism, that the United States is a country that promotes opportunity, that hard work and ambition are what matters the most for getting ahead” (Erin Currier, Moving On Up More Difficult In America).
Although Cal Thomas claims “there is not much of [the American dream] that’s left” and Erin Currier argues “it is more difficult to ‘move up’ in America,” 70% of Americans still “believe in this idea of American exceptionalism.” This naïve optimism is fueled by the traditional believe that a new generation achieves “a better life than their parents and grandparents.” Like Americans, Gatz is fooled into believing his fantasy, his American dream, is a possibility. The global image that America is the place for opportunity fools Americans themselves into believing so. Similarly, the guests’ beliefs that Gatsby leads the most impressive, extravagant lifestyle leads Gatsby to believe he has fulfilled his American dream. The fatal truth comes when it is evident that the American dream has not been achieved and may no longer be a possibility. For Gatsby, this reality comes when the guests leave and it is prevalent that without their circling rumors of his persona, all that is left is the unsupportive framework of his imagined American dream.
Mary-A very astute commentary on Gatsby and his dream, based on the notions in the handouts you read on the American Dream. I like the image at the end of your post.
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