Gastby and streetcar named desire - Essay Example

These four aspects will form the crux of this paper by providing the blueprint for the analysis of both works. Both Williams and Fitzgerald portray the American Dream as a misconception and, to a large extent, a fraud. In their style of writing, plots, and choice of characters, the two authors seem to be telling their audiences that, in truth, there may not be such a thing as the American Dream. While it is a reality for some, it is a mere illusion for others. In both books, one of the prevalent themes is that not one person can provide a sound definition of the American Dream (Castle 15).

Stanley and Gatsby are both intent on living the good life and having all that they desire. However, this ambition also clouds their reality, because, in essence, while the American Dream preaches wealth and riches, it ignores common life challenges that every person must experience at some point in their lives. Both authors also appear to suggest that the American Dream is lived by those who deserve it. This implies that realizing it is only one piece of the jigsaw (Castle 49). Williams and Fitzgerald are convinced, through their style of writing and plot, that the American Dream comes with responsibilities.

Both authors show that the American Dream requires sustenance, vigilance, self-awareness, realism, strategy, and prudence, and mental strength. All individuals who want to live the dream must be adequate in these aspects, or else they will be crushed under the expectations and weight of the dream. While Gatsby and Stanley are different in the sense that the former appears be superficially living the American Dream while the latter seems to be actively pursuing it, both men demonstrate that they lack sufficient character to achieve and live the dream.

Their understanding of it is warped and their actions betray their intentions. In other words, they are not ready for the dream; they desire it but they are not responsible enough experience it. The American Dream