We all have different definitions of success. Most people allow their definition of "success" to de driven by someone or something else (status quo), for in Ragged Dick by Haratio Alger written in 1868, the protagonist Dick also last known as Richard Hunter looked at what someone else thought of a success and tried to attain it. This book tells about a poor boy struggles to become a success. Although Haratio Alger emphasizes the importance of pluck, luck and virtue, in attaining success, it is clear that success also depends on who you know, how you look, and what you are willing to change.
             Even though Fosdick had courage, what really mattered is how and who got him there. For with connections, Fosdick would not be able to get an honorable job. "That will be sufficient," said the shop-keeper, who knew Mr. Greyson's high character and position. "He could have no better recommendation. You may come to the store to-morrow morning at half past seven o'clock. (Alger 162)" Another boy who had better a "gentleman" as a father could have gotten the job but Mr. Greyson happened to shown up, for he was recognize as an aristocratic person. As Alger pointed out, " 'I've got the place," said Fosdick, in accents of satisfaction; "but it was only because Mr. Greyson spoke up for me.'(Alger 162)." If Mr. Greyson was not there, Fosdick would not have gotten that job, for he had no parents and with out parents they would not want him. Alger stated, "Revealed the fact of his having no parents, and being a boy of the street, this was generally sufficient of itself to insure a refusal. Merchants were afraid to trust one who had led such a vagabond life (Alger 157). Having a father that is a "gentleman" would mean that there is a better chance of getting a job. In order to get a job you would need your parents. Getting a job is part of achieving success to make money. Money is a part of havi...