Reflection+p.3

= The American Dream = The American dream is typically described as living with freedom, liberty and happiness. The achievement of this dream is demonstrated through Americans' patriotism. The first aspect of the American dream that one may think about is the Statue of Liberty. This gift from France represents freedom and democracy that immigrants come to America to achieve. When they arrive in America and see the symbol of liberty, their hearts fill with comfort, as they realize they have fulfilled their dreams of coming to "the land of opportunity." As demonstrated in the video of //God Bless the USA//, Americans who have dreamed of living in a land of freedom have succeeded and believe they have found the true place for opportunities. However, the American dream as changed over the course of history. Today, Americans dream of success and living prosperously. We dream of money, lavishly decorated houses, and climbing to the top of the ladder of success. Like Gatsby, many Americans live their lives with a single goal in mind; being successful and living with "flashy, ineffable gaudiness." We also hold onto our dream and do not give up until we are successful. As we selfishly attempt to fulfill our dreams, we tend to forget about others who are not as fortunate. We are blinded by our selfish motivations and are solely focussed on unimportant goals. The American dream distracts us from the opportunities and gifts we are given by living in a land of freedom.

While many people believe that America offers a limitless number of opportunities, Langston Hughes has a different view. He questions the freedom of America. Although people praise the United States of America, many are shot down and are not able to accomplish their dreams. Some people are restricted and not granted the opportunities to achieve the freedom they dream of. Hughes demonstrates the controversial views about America amongst its citizens.

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