This Side Of Paradise Essay

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This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald is the story of a boy, then man, named Amory Blaine. Amory lived a certain lifestyle, and things would typically go his way in his childhood. For example, his mother sent him away to boarding school when he wanted to, he got into Princeton, and he typically got the girl he wanted. Amory was mature compared this his peers, clever, and handsome. Overall, he seemed like a very “lucky” person, especially since he was born into money, got to travel, and go to the schools of his choices. Amory was so involved with becoming the center of attention and the best on campus; however, he put little work into his actual studies. His downfall came after failing a class at Princeton. From there, he went to war, …show more content…
He mother loves him, wants the best for him, and uses tutors to educate him while they travel. From the beginning of the book it is clear to see that Amory is used to a high-class lifestyle. He’s smart and that is made clear from the beginning, but it is not just conventional “smartness.” He is good at getting what he wants. For example, when he convinces Myra to kiss him, even though he dislikes it. Another example, he convinces his mom he wants to go to boarding school. From that point he attends a private school in New England. St. Regis. The conclusion of this book is one part that does hold interest. It ends where his downfall began: Princeton. Amory walks there because he is now poor, and while speaking with a wealthy man, he starts to see his hatred for the social structure of America. He famously ends the book with acceptance and the line: “I know myself, but that is all…” The publication of this book was in 1920. While the central themes of this book are still important to today’s society, the story is more historical than present. The idea of the American Dream still exists today but in a much different context. I doubt a student in college today would act the same way that Amory Blaine does in the book. This book is still relevant because of the thesis; however, there are more current books that would grab student’s interest revealing similar

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