From this parable, one of the most interesting things to consider is the dynamic between power and attitude. As everyone has previously said, this story is an example of a small desolate town being altered by modern industrialization and capitalism. However, what I find even more significant than this transformation is the complacency of the Chief versus the yearning for change in the Grocer. The Chief maintained his position of power in both accounts of Balgat, and both interviewers seemed to portray the Chief as someone satisfied with living in Balgat, regardless of what it looked like. In contrast to this, the Grocer wanted nothing more then “to get out of his hole” (Lerner, 49). Power creates contentment, and being stripped of power creates longing. I also find it very interesting that hope and America are always connected for people living outside of its context. It seems that more often than not people who lack power in their own society long to come to America and make something of themselves: “I have heard that its is a nice country, and with possibilities to be rich even for the simplest person” (Lerner). I have to wonder if this outsider view of America still persists today, or if it is better understood that America is a place with low social mobility, and little chance to gain power if you don’t already have it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
From this parable, one of the most interesting things to consider is the dynamic between power and attitude. As everyone has previously said, this story is an example of a small desolate town being altered by modern industrialization and capitalism. … Continue reading