The American Dream - A Poem

THE AMERICAN DREAM 

by Brett Stewart

So, like many students in my class this week, I had to give a speech. My speech's prompt was essentially the impact of modernity and technology on the philosophical idea of the American Dream. Does modern technology and an interconnected world help or hurt reaching the American Dream? When thinking about answering the question, the following poem spewed onto my paper within minutes. I've posted it here for more to enjoy, and many of my classmates asked me to post it. I hope you enjoy it -



What to you is the American Dream? 
It's moved from the light into darkness, or so it may seem.
What fuels the endless pursuit?
Is it justified by coveting bounty and loot?

Has modernity assaulted the American race?
Or do you just start at the finish, making slower pace?
Aren't we supposed to be the dream-makers?
With god on our side we built cathedrals and cars and massive skyscrapers.

We once were a nation who stood up for what was right.
Now, money and power have made us lose our train of site.
Maybe the modern beast hasn't sent the Dream to it's tomb;
Maybe everything else has just filled up the room.

Is the Dream always something new and nifty?
I'm sure it's never been getting gas for $3.50.
Maybe the Dream was to finally succeed;
Now it must assuage our ever-growing need.

The dream sure isn't what it was 50 years ago;
It's gotten much harder to reap what you sow. 

So has modernity weakened or strengthened our path?
It's nearly impossible to stand back and do the math.
The numbers say your rate of success is much slimmer;
But your environment builds you up, praising you a winner.

What of technology, in this pursuit? Has it been very kind?
Has it pushed you steps back, or enlightened your mind?
You can argue both, I honestly don't care,
Life has never been fair, and in the end your subject to the demons of your own lair.

So let's not point fingers at the LCD's.
We're the only ones that hold the keys.
The race will be harder with more runners in place;
That's just plain logic, it's always been the case.

Maybe modernity is unraveling us by the seam,
But, what of it? 
Don't let it stop the pursuit of the American Dream.


- The world is growing into a much more competitive place. Your American Dream is the Dream of hundreds of other people your age. But, that doesn't mean modernity or technology is hurting the American Dream. It's just harder to achieve.

Those who reach for the stars, and miss time and time again, will achieve the American Dream. Because one day, they grab hold of one, or become one.