Ingrid Illustrated

Perhaps the piece we read in first semester that had the greatest impact on me was The Stranger by Albert Camus. It delves into the philosophies of existentialism and the absurdity of life, topics I had never explored before. Through Meursault's journey as an emotionally detached protagonist, I was able to gain insight into the human condition and the meaning of existence. Reading The Stranger challenged my traditional beliefs and forced me to question my own values and perspectives. The book presents a worldview in which life is meaningless and humans are insignificant in the grand scheme of things. This perspective led me to gain a deeper appreciation for the present moment, as it highlights the importance of cherishing each day rather than constantly seeking some larger purpose. Now, I try to live in the moment at each and every point of my day.  I have also gained a deeper understanding of the true human condition. The novel highlights the struggles that individuals face in f...

As the daughter of immigrant parents, my own life reflects the complexities of the “American Dream”. A common dinner-table conversation theme of ours includes my brother and I’s futures. It’s clear that our view differs from our parents’, which leads to heated discussions and slammed doors. But still, my parents are relatively supportive of anything I want to do as long as I’m passionate about it.  The "American Dream" is a concept that has been central to the American identity for decades. It represents the idea that through hard work and determination, anyone can achieve success and prosperity. However, as society has evolved and diversified, the perception of the “American Dream” has also changed. Cultural and generational divides influence perception of the "American Dream", as contrasted in Death of a Salesman and The Joy Luck Club, and these differences put immense strains on familial relationships which can be compared in the two works.  On one hand, Death of...