The Irony of "The American Dream"
As discussed in class, Doctorow heavily uses irony to express his idea that the “American Dream” is not as luxurious as it seems. His depictions of main characters primarily push this narrative, as he uses successful and real characters like Harry Houdini, but also traditionally unsuccessful and fake characters like Tateh. Ultimately, Doctorow is showing that no matter your status, or level of fiction, “The American Dream” is a very containing ideology that forces Americans to think it is the only true measure of success.
Harry Houdini seems to be the epitome of American success and fame in this time period, especially since his name is still well-known to this day. What makes him a product of “The American Dream” rather than a traditional success story is the fact that he himself was an immigrant to the United States as a young child. The brand he builds and his identity as an escape artist further symbolizes that the key to his success was his skill in escaping - either from a country or a tank. By pushing this idea, Americans and immigrants are given hope that they too can reach this dream level of success. However, as much of this hope is unattainable, Americans are just pushed further into the cycle of capitalism.
On page 9, Doctorow writes, “He seemed depressed. His success had brought into vaudeville a host of competitors.” This line is key in showing that even Houdini can never truly feel like he has reaped the benefits of “The American Dream.” In truth, the idea of American success is just to keep Americans working overtime which ultimately benefits the economy.
Tateh is a stark contrast to Houdini in that he is largely portrayed as struggling and has not reached near the amount of success that Houdini has. Yet, the reader still feels some respect for Tateh because he is portrayed as hardworking and just trying to do the best for his family. We only start to think he is a “sell-out” when he decides to invest by agreeing to mass produce his animation books. This is exactly the idea of The American Dream, but it has a negative context here. I believe this depiction shows how irresistible American capitalism is, and emphasizes how core the addictive cycle is to the US economy.
Overall, Doctorow effectively employs irony to show the downsides of American success. It is ultimately rare for the average individual, but the hope that it can be achieved is a tactic to keep Americans working. Even though it can sometimes have a negative connotation as recognized by regular civilians, it is too dominant in American society to not take these opportunities that feel like “selling out.” As a result, Doctorow clearly shows the dilemma that Americans face in terms of trying to reach commercial success.
I really enjoyed how you compare and contrast Houdini and Tateh's experiences pursuing the "American Dream." To add on: Both are immigrants who leave behind their past in hopes of a better future. Both decide to shed a part of their identity; Houdini changes his name and Tateh quits being a socialist to make money off of his flipbook. Are these decisions worth the prosperity that comes afterwards? That's up for us to interpret.
ReplyDeleteI really like how you talked about the American Dream and how it is found in the book. I hadn't really thought about it, but it does directly influence a lot of character's actions.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the mass-production of Tateh's flip-books feels wrong in its very essence. They were originally for the little girl and were personalized for her. Now, it is no longer custom designed, meant only to continue the capitalistic society of America and to provide for his family. This seems like a negative change to me as well. He is losing his values, just like what Lawrence said above.
I think it's places like these where Doctorow's narration style comes into use, especially the historical fiction aspect of his writing. By taking a historical character, such as Houdini, and adding in fictional narration about his personal life and backstories, he can twist the story to tell what he wants it to tell. I love that you also connected the two very different lives of Tateh and Houdini, through the common thread that they are both immigrants. They tell two sides of immigrant success and struggle that many don't always want to see, even to this day. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI really like the comparison between Houdini and Tateh here. It makes me think that we only respect those working for the American Dream, not those who have already made it and not those who have given up. Houdini shows that even people who have already made it find it hard to fully appreciate. He is always feeling empty, disliking competition only by principle, continuing forward because he has to, yet always jealous of those with a more permanent impact (like explorers).
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