American Dream DefinitionThe American Dream The American Dream is a subjective concept based on the idea that happiness can be achieved through hard work and dedication, regardless of social status. America, historically, has been referred to as “the land of opportunity”, and early notions of the American Dream (take Truslow’s original definition, for example) is an abject fulfillment of this concept. He defines is as “the dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone”. In this case, a “better” life is defined on an individual level. Some Americans value material objects, while others seek emotional or personal validation. My personal “American Dream” is vastly different from the traditional characterization. For me, it is an intersectional and inclusionary community that would reflect my values. While a common definition involves “working hard and becoming successful” (Merriam-Webster), I don’t value material or career success in the same way that others might. In some regard, a ‘dream’ is indicative of a personality more so than values. Someone who seeks emotional fulfillment might dream to have a loving family. Another, who seeks economic security, might dream to be rich. This is why a common understanding of the American Dream “consists of tenets about achieving success” (J.L. Hochschild), as success can be measured in many different ways. In a way, to define the American Dream, you have to define success on a personal level as well. For me, success wouldn’t necessarily be achieving my dream, but would be something very close. My dream is a functional, connected community that is rooted in respect for the environment and a mutual respect of its inhabitants. This community, however, is more theoretical than anything else. What’s significantly more consequential is the motivational impact of the dream. Some people, like myself, use the concept of a dream to motivate them, while others are more focused on achieving tangible results. In either regard, dreams are an effective motivational tool that can to guide someone throughout their life. My American Dream CollageMy collage is an abstract, almost dada-esque depiction of my american dream. It’s a commune, which is reflective of my political ideology, and is ecocentric, which communicates my personal values. There are other elements of my personality that reveal themselves in my collage. Take for example, the presence of Alison Bechdel, a well-known author and creator of the Bechdel Test, whom I idolize. While the nature of the collage is somewhat esoteric, it symbolizes the most crucial part of my American Dream: community. I took influence from Hannah Hoch, particularly her pieces Cut with the Dada Kitchen Knife through the Last Weimar Beer-Belly Cultural Epoch in Germany (1919) and Das schöne Mädchen [The Beautiful Girl] (1920). The gross disorganization and sheer volume of the elements of her work are what I wanted to incorporated into my collage. Overall, the collage is meant to convey my American Dream (again, a cooperative community) through symbolic and abstract means.
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AuthorI'm Sabrina, a student at New Tech High. Archives
April 2019
CategoriesAll After Affects Biology Digital Media Environmental Oceanography Personal Research Tutorial |