Dream-Like Experiences In John Steinbeck's Requiem For A Dream

Continuing on the theme of dream-like experiences, Requiem for a Dream describes the majestic sensation the group of friends feel while high on drugs: “They luxuriated in a feeling of deep and all pervading satisfaction, a feeling of knowing absolutely that all was well with the world and them and that the world was not only their oyster it was also their linguine with clam sauce. Not only were all things possible, but all things were theirs.” By examining how the characters describe their feelings while on drugs, one can pinpoint areas of insecurities and conclude how they feel while sober. For instance, the group “luxuriated,” which is a word typically associated with being on vacation or in a stress-free environment. Drugs are the temporary escape from reality. As mentioned earlier, the characters are chasing after an unattainable American Dream which is, in general, wanting to feel content with their life. Through drugs, they are able to fill this void and achieve “a feeling of deep and all pervading satisfaction.” The words “deep” and “pervading” both put emphasis on how fulfilling the satisfaction is. It goes deep within their core and flows through every inch of their body. Also, the narrator uses hyperbole when he describes how the characters feel “all pervading” and “absolutely knowing.” These exaggerated
Instead, the drug is perceived to be the controlling enemy, rather than the irresponsible user. Mark Renton illustrates his experience of going through withdrawals: “Ah started to feel a crippling nausea and the room began tae spin. Ah fell lot ay the chair n puked tomatay soup aw owed the fireside rug. Ma body was being twisted and crushed. It wis like ah had collapsed in the street and a skid hud been lowered own top ay me, n a squad ay vicious works were loading it up wi heavy building materials, while at the same time sticking sharp roads underneath to skewer ma