Typical American Analysis
Achieving the American Dream
Typical American, by Gish Jen is a detailed account of Ralph Chang’s life, the friendship he forms and the struggles and achievements he conquers. Supporting the rich story are themes ranging from the paradox of freedom, to the assimilation of a race of immigrants. However one major theme Jen emphasizes is the pursuit of the American Dream. All immigrants who come to the United States have this search for success when they first set foot on American soil. It is a dream that allows people to start fresh in order to become whoever they want to be and live however they want to. “Anything could happen, this was America. He gave himself up to the country and dreamt.” (Jen 42) Like many immigrants Ralph came to the U.S. …show more content…
As Grover's final attempt, he informs Ralph about his affairs. This bursting anger kept within Ralph spirals upwards as he traps Helen in the car to force an answer of the affair. Going at rapid speed Ralph hits Theresa which brings terror and shock within the family. “Mercy- he hoped someone, someone would have mercy.” (Jen, 284) As Ralph prayed for his sister’s recovery the idea of death dawns upon him. Accepting at any given day death could come upon his family, he appreciates his family and the dream they have given him.
Although Jens view on the American dream may not be popular, through the story of Typical American, she makes it clear that the American dream is to have a loving caring family. From the struggles with visas, to the recovery of Theresa, Ralph’s family had always been there for him. On the other hand Grover who had “everything” could not find peace with his life as he endeavored to find a home. Through the two characters, had similar dreams, whenever Ralph had thought he found the American dream, he was always guided by his family both directly and indirectly protecting him and maturing him as a
Typical American, by Gish Jen is a detailed account of Ralph Chang’s life, the friendship he forms and the struggles and achievements he conquers. Supporting the rich story are themes ranging from the paradox of freedom, to the assimilation of a race of immigrants. However one major theme Jen emphasizes is the pursuit of the American Dream. All immigrants who come to the United States have this search for success when they first set foot on American soil. It is a dream that allows people to start fresh in order to become whoever they want to be and live however they want to. “Anything could happen, this was America. He gave himself up to the country and dreamt.” (Jen 42) Like many immigrants Ralph came to the U.S. …show more content…
As Grover's final attempt, he informs Ralph about his affairs. This bursting anger kept within Ralph spirals upwards as he traps Helen in the car to force an answer of the affair. Going at rapid speed Ralph hits Theresa which brings terror and shock within the family. “Mercy- he hoped someone, someone would have mercy.” (Jen, 284) As Ralph prayed for his sister’s recovery the idea of death dawns upon him. Accepting at any given day death could come upon his family, he appreciates his family and the dream they have given him.
Although Jens view on the American dream may not be popular, through the story of Typical American, she makes it clear that the American dream is to have a loving caring family. From the struggles with visas, to the recovery of Theresa, Ralph’s family had always been there for him. On the other hand Grover who had “everything” could not find peace with his life as he endeavored to find a home. Through the two characters, had similar dreams, whenever Ralph had thought he found the American dream, he was always guided by his family both directly and indirectly protecting him and maturing him as a