After completing the reading of The Great Gatsby and "Let America Be America Again," I realized that both pieces having the same underlying theme. The authors are trying to express the depths that patrons will go to in order to fulfill the American dream, but the hollow reality of an illusion; the dream is untenable. Through the narration of the literature, it is understood that America has drifted from the building blocks that it was established on, in the same breathe, considering realignment would not be logical. Each author demonstrates their ideal America, and the issues that have caused the over all picture to be astray.
             In The Great Gatsby, Nick, the narrator, begins the story with an important quote, "Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone," he told me, "just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had." (Fitzgerald 1) This doesn't seem like a very important passage, but as the story progresses the enormity of this advice is seen clearly. Nick, being an honest young man from the mid west, grew up with simple values and virtually no need for accessories. Due to the way he was brought up, he had the ability to keep his head straight, without becoming greedy or corrupt. Nick persuaded his goals and worked hard in order to achieve an honorable status in society. By pilling up these characteristics, it is fair to say that Nick represented the America dream. On the other hand, most of America was money hungry and would do anything to get ahead.
             During a summer vacation to the Northeast, Nick discovered the corruption that was eroding the American dream. In Long Island, the citizens were littered with liars, cheats, and people who could not see passed their own nose. Nick's college friend, who used to be a model citizen, had been transformed into a barbaric, heartless snob. Money had corrupted the way people t
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