America And I By Anzia Yezierska Essay

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Recommended: The realistic view of the American dream

For years, the idea of the American Dream has been looked at as an achievable pathway to a better life. However, this day in age, we must pose the question- does such a thing really exist? People who have been born in the United States seem to make it appear so, but reaching success has always been a lot harder than it looks. Oddly enough, the people that hope to attain the American Dream the most, (arguably the ones with the greatest amount of strive), weren't even born in America. The majority of people who migrate to another country from their homeland, are leaving so that they may create a more improved life for themselves and/or their family. But will fantasizing about a better life be enough to make it happen? Will America stay true to …show more content…

To foreigners who longed for a happy life, Americans made it almost seem easy. The story 'America and I' written by Anzia Yezierska, gives the audience a greater look at what it must be like to start a new life in the great America. "As one of the dumb, voiceless ones I speak. One of the millions of immigrants beating, beating out their hearts at your gates for a breath of understanding." This opening line helps the readers feel what Anzia (and many other immigrants) were feeling just before migrating to the United States. Full of hope and excitement. Willing to do whatever it took to suceed in this new world. She continues on to express her gratitude for this wonderful opportunity that has come before her. As the story progresses, she begins to come to the realization that the American Dream is a fabricated concept, made to make America seem welcoming and superior to other countries in some way. An example of how challenging it was to achieve the "American Dream" is; if an immigrant spoke little to no english, they would more than likely have a nearly impossible chance at becoming successful. The true problem with this is the expectations that are held by people who want to live a lavish life in America. They are told how great it is, but when they get

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