My greatest ambition Flashcards
What is the central theme of ‘My Greatest Ambition’?
“The loss of youthful dreams and the reality of adulthood.”
Who is the narrator of the story?
“A young boy who dreams of becoming a comic book artist.”
Why is the narrator excited at the beginning of the story?
“Because he has submitted his comic to a magazine and received a response.”
What does the narrator’s comic strip symbolize?
“His ambition
Why does the narrator’s father dismiss his ambition?
“He believes comic books are childish and not a serious career.”
What happens when the narrator visits the comic magazine office?
“He is disappointed by the dull atmosphere and realizes the reality is less exciting than he imagined.”
What does the narrator learn by the end of the story?
“That dreams can be shattered by reality
How does Lurie use humor in the story?
“Through the boy’s exaggerated excitement and naive perceptions.”
What is ironic about the narrator’s experience?
“He thinks becoming a comic artist is thrilling
How does the narrator’s mother react to his ambition?
“She is supportive but not entirely convinced.”
What is the significance of the rejection letter?
“It marks the moment when the narrator’s dream is crushed.”
What does the narrator’s father symbolize?
“The harsh reality of adulthood and practical expectations.”
How does Lurie portray childhood dreams?
“As full of excitement but often unrealistic in the face of the real world.”
What is the role of the editor in the story?
“He represents the indifferent and unromantic nature of the publishing industry.”
How does the setting of the magazine office contrast with the narrator’s expectations?
“The office is boring and unimpressive
What is the main conflict in the story?
“The clash between childhood ambition and the reality of adult life.”
How does the story end?
“The narrator gives up on his dream and never draws comics again.”
What does the title ‘My Greatest Ambition’ suggest?
“That what was once the narrator’s greatest dream was ultimately abandoned.”
What literary device is used to highlight the narrator’s disillusionment?
“Irony—his excitement turns into disappointment.”
How does the narrator feel when he leaves the magazine office?
“Disillusioned and defeated.”
What message does Lurie convey about ambition?
“That dreams can be crushed by reality
What does the narrator’s school uniform symbolize?
“His childhood and lack of experience in the adult world.”
Why is the narrator’s reaction to the magazine office important?
“It marks his realization that the real world is not as exciting as he imagined.”
How does Lurie show the narrator’s immaturity?
“Through his exaggerated expectations and dramatic reactions.”
