The American Dream is portrayed as a symbol of hope and opportunity, and has captivated the imagination of countless individuals aspiring for success and happiness. It represents the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve prosperity and fulfillment through hard work and determination. However, beneath its happy and peaceful appearance, the American Dream possesses a destructive power that can unravel lives and communities.
In "The Great Gatsby," characters such as Jay Gatsby and Myrtle Wilson are driven by their relentless pursuit of the American Dream. They believe that acquiring wealth and status will bring them happiness and fulfillment. However, their dreams are shattered when they realize that material possessions and social standing are not the key to happiness. "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgiastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther..." (Fitzgerald, 180). Gatsby, despite his many wealthy parties and grand mansion, remains lonely and unfulfilled, ultimately meeting a tragic end. Myrtle too pays a heavy price for her relentless pursuit, leading to her untimely demise. These characters' experiences illustrate how the American Dream
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In the novel “Revolutionary Road” written by Richard Yates, it states that the American Dream can result in the "betrayal of the true self" (Yates, 41). In this quote you can see the sacrifices individuals make, sacrificing their passions, relationships, and personal well-being in the pursuit of success. Focusing on materialistic items can lead to significant unhappiness, strained relationships, and a sense of emptiness. The sacrifices made to achieve the American Dream can ultimately lead to the destruction of personal happiness and