This quote shows one of Nick's underlying perceptions and also an aspect of the 1920's. Nick Carraway describes the English men as " all looking a little hungry and all talking in low earnest voices" and the Americans as " solid and prosperous". The way in which he describes the English and the Americans gives off an idea that he perceives Americans as above people from other nations. The young English men seem to be look up to the Americans as roads to wealth and prosperous.The quote also shows that the English men are looking to fulfill the American dream through the Americans. The "low earnest voices" of the English men show that they are humbling themselves before the Americans. It also portrays America a place like no other, where opportunity is found. As if, the young men could not find their fortunes in England. They had to come all the way to America to find their fortunes. This shows the 1920 view as America as the place to be, the only land of oppurtunity.
Words, words, words...
13 years ago
I agree with you that the quote is emphasizing the American Dream. The English are well dressed, so they do have some money but Nick also says they are a little hungry. I think the quote also shows how materialistic the times were. The English men were well dressed but did not have enough food. They were spending money on clothing rather than food for themselves. Josh said “he perceives Americans as above people from other nations.” I would say that it is more of the foreigners looking at America as superior to other nations, when in reality it is not. The English men are almost starving themselves for the chance to live the American Dream.
ReplyDeleteI didnt actually think about the materialistic part but thats a good perspective. James, you just like put in words correctly what i was thinking about Americans above foreigners :D
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