Author: Edwin Arlington Robinson

Summary: This poem describes a wealthy, admired man named Richard Cory, who, despite appearing to have a perfect life, suffers from profound inner loneliness and ultimately takes his own life. Robinson’s poem critiques the superficial assumptions people make about wealth and happiness, challenging the notion that material success equates to fulfillment.

• “He had come a long way to this blue lawn, and his dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it. He did not know that it was already behind him, somewhere back in that vast obscurity beyond the city, where the dark fields of the republic rolled on under the night”

Connection: This quote reveals Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of an unattainable dream, symbolizing the false promises of the American Dream and the futility of trying to recapture an idealized past.

Daisy on her limited hopes for her daughter:

• “I hope she'll be a fool—that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool”

Connection: Daisy’s comment reflects the limitations society places on individuals, especially women, suggesting that ignorance might be preferable to the inevitable disappointment of realizing the harsh reality behind the American Dream.

Nick’s reflection on the unattainability of dreams:

• “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past”

Connection: This closing line symbolizes the relentless, yet ultimately hopeless, pursuit of dreams that are forever out of reach, much like Gatsby’s quest for wealth and love. It critiques the cyclical nature of the American Dream, where individuals are encouraged to keep striving despite its unfulfilling nature.

• “The man who creates personal interest is the man who gets ahead. Be liked and you will never want”

Connection: Willy’s belief in popularity as the key to success reflects his misunderstanding of the American Dream, as he clings to superficial values that ultimately fail to bring him real achievement or happiness.

Willy’s identity crisis:

• “I am not a dime a dozen! I am Willy Loman, and you are Biff Loman!”

Connection: This moment underscores Willy’s desperation to assert his worth in a society that measures value by success and wealth. His need for validation reflects the toxic influence of the American Dream on individual identity, where self-worth becomes entangled with societal approval.

Biff’s realization about the illusions of success:

• “I saw the things that I love in this world. The work and the food and time to sit and smoke...Why am I trying to become what I don’t want to be?”

Connection: Biff’s epiphany about his own dreams versus societal expectations highlights the conflict between personal contentment and the relentless push to achieve material success. It challenges the American Dream’s emphasis on status and wealth, promoting a more grounded sense of fulfillment.