"I am living proof that the American dream still exists. It is still alive and well. There is only one trick, you have to be willing to roll up your sleeves and work very, very hard." - Paula Deen
This quotation speaks very truthfully about the 'American Dream', but also relates most to the novel Ragged Dick. The significance of this quotation is the line, 'you have to be willing to roll up your sleeves and work very, very hard.' which can evidently be seen in Ragged Dick. For example, Dick shows a willingness to learn and adapt himself in order to better himself and gain success. Dick's willingness to learn really relates back to this quotation and the notion of hard work and motivation in order to receive the 'American Dream'.
When looking within context of Paula Deen, she is a famous cook and has written many cookbooks within her career, however has had many struggles throughout life. For example, after her divorce from her first husband she was only left with $200 in order to support herself and her family. Therefore, this also supports the notion of the American Dream being about having freedom, but that it can only come from hard work and determination, which was a key factor within Ragged Dick as Dick willingness to adapt showed his eagerness to learn and motivation.
Although, it also shows that the 'American Dream' doesn't revolve around having a great fortune, but bettering yourself. For example, cooking helped Paula Deen overcome her insecurities and phobias. When linking this to Ragged Dick the notion of the American Dream wasn't about Dick becoming richer (e.g. rags to riches) but by becoming a gentlemen, in other words, bettering himself.
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/p/pauladeen431865.html#LGWWqEjR0KPdYPRt.99
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paula_Deen
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