The American Dream: The Road Not Taken

The definition of the American Dream is different than the reality of the American Dream. The definition is that everyone should have equal opportunity to achieve success, through hard work, persistence, determination, and initiative. The reality of the American Dream is far different than depicted in multiple fantasy worlds, one them being The Great Gatsby. The real American Dream is struggling for work and money, while your family goes through multiple challenges.

In Hughes poem “Harlem”, it reminds us that when you defer dreams they will not always take the same path. “Or fester like a sore-- And then run?” This quote shows that life and important priorities can take precedence over your dreams and goals. While you are living your life and setting aside your dreams, you often feel as though your dreams are decaying and this intensifies your desire to achieve those goals. “Maybe it just sags like a heavy load.” This quote shows your dream deferred is often an elephant in the room. It never goes away unless you deal with it first hand. If you don’t take action, it could cause resentment for not accomplishing your goals.

It makes you feel as if your missed something that could have changed your life for the better. The title the “The Road Not Taken” itself shows that a person will never stop thinking back to their former decisions. One will always think about the chances that they might have missed out on. “I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference,” this says that they did not travel the well travelled path. He made the decision based on his situation not others. In the end he was happy with the decision he made. This shows that you should follow what you believe is right and that you should not let others dictate that for