American Dream and Ambition

Characters pursue success, money, and status—like Bud seeking 'the center of things' or Thatcher dreaming of wealth—but the narrative reveals the emptiness, corruption, and disillusionment that often accompany these pursuits.

Bud's arrival embodies the pursuit of opportunity, while the city's relentless pace reflects the ambition and struggle for success.

Bud Korpenning arrives seeking work and the 'center of things'; Ed Thatcher and Mr. Zucher discuss saving, ambition, and providing for children; the shaving vignette reflects a desire for self-improvement.

Ed Thatcher dreams of saving money for Ellen; Emile believes in getting ahead in America; contrasted with Marco's revolutionary critique.

The chapter contrasts the promise of opportunity (the 'land of opportoonity') with the struggles of characters like the destitute sailor, Bud Korpenning, and the ambitious lawyer George Baldwin seeking his first big case.