The American Dream In Truman Capote's In Cold Blood

In many pieces of American literature, one of the most frequently discussed topics, whether it be blatant to a reader or well camouflaged, is that of The American Dream. Specifically, the perfect “American” life is one of hard work and dedication, meant to turn such work into reward in the form of prosperity and happiness for the worker. In Cold Blood, by Truman Capote, is a prime example of the use of the concept of The American Dream. Capote perfectly encapsulates the fragility of The American Dream by building up an image of the flawless American family, living surrounded by riches that included more than money, and then taking great care in describing the details of their demise. Through one night of misfortune, a family, nearly the epitome of The American Dream, was torn apart for the entirety of less than fifty dollars. Capote also capitalizes on the despondent fact that those who caused the downfall of “The American Dream”, were the very denizen on the other side of it all.
Mr. Clutter is very much the hardworking mascot of The American Dream, running a fairly large farm in rural Kansas, “...[Mr. Clutter] on land leased with borrowed money, created, in embryo, River Valley Farm...in the beginning years, he labored eighteen hours a day. Setbacks occurred...but after a decade Mr. Clutter’s domain consisted of over eight hundred acres…” (Capote 11). As well as a flourishing business, Herb Clutter has everything a man could ask for: a loving wife, beautiful daughters and a son, grandchildren, a large house, and many friends. Seemingly, the Clutter’s had in their possession all of the gifts life could offer, and all of the promises of The American Dream. Their dreamlike reality is the goal of all Americans, to prosper and thrive through the fruits of one’s own