Conforming to the "Norm"

Paper Summary:

The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze two works: "The Outcasts of Poker Flat" by Bret Harte and "To Brooklyn Bridge" by Hart Crane. Specifically, it discusses what reasons the two main characters have for conforming (or not conforming) to the norm in these two works. The characters in these works symbolize America, both the best and the worst. They also symbolize how society expects much from its citizens and how some people, no matter how hard they try, simply cannot conform to the norm and fit in to a society that will only accept them on its own, quite demanding terms.

From the Paper:

"Conforming to the "norm" is one way people manage to get along in society. Society certainly does demand a lot from most people, ethically and politically, and those who do not openly conform to society's rules are often cast out or seen as outsiders. In both of these works, the main characters must conform to society's rules to survive. In "Brooklyn Bridge," the main character is really the bridge itself, and Crane portrays it in a mystical or God-like way, as if it is an image to be idolized, just like the Statue of Liberty nearby in New York Harbor. More than conforming, the bridge becomes a symbol of America at its best. It is symbolic of a society on the move, inventing new technology and rushing toward the future."

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