Introduction
This essay explores the extent to which Imbolo Mbue’s novel “Behold the Dreamers” (2016) portrays the American Dream as an illusion. Set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis, the novel follows Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant, and his family as they navigate life in New York City, chasing economic stability and social mobility. By critically analysing the text, this essay will assess how Mbue critiques the attainability of the American Dream, particularly for immigrants and marginalised groups. The discussion will first provide a brief overview of the American Dream concept, then examine key themes in the novel—such as economic disparity, cultural alienation, and personal sacrifice—before concluding with reflections on the implications of Mbue’s perspective.
Understanding the American Dream
The American Dream, a concept rooted in the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve prosperity and success through hard work and determination, has been a central pillar of American cultural identity since the early 20th century. Articulated prominently in James Truslow Adams’ 1931 text “The Epic of America,” it promises upward mobility and equal opportunity (Adams, 1931). However, contemporary critiques argue that structural inequalities—such as race, class, and immigration status—often undermine this ideal. Mbue’s novel engages directly with these tensions, questioning whether the dream is accessible or merely a deceptive mirage for certain demographics.
Economic Disparity and the Illusion of Mobility
One of the central ways “Behold the Dreamers” suggests the American Dream is illusory is through its depiction of economic disparity. Jende Jonga, the protagonist, arrives in the United States with hopes of securing a better life for himself and his wife, Neni, and son, Liomi. Despite his relentless work as a chauffeur for a wealthy Lehman Brothers executive, Clark Edwards, Jende’s income remains precarious, barely sustaining his family. Mbue juxtaposes Jende’s struggles with the opulence of the Edwards family, highlighting a stark class divide that no amount of hard work seems to bridge. Indeed, when the financial crisis hits, Jende’s vulnerability is exposed as he faces potential deportation and job loss, underscoring how systemic economic instability disproportionately affects immigrants. This narrative challenges the notion that diligence alone guarantees success, suggesting instead that the American Dream is unattainable for those outside the privileged class.
Cultural Alienation and Identity Struggles
Beyond economic barriers, Mbue portrays cultural alienation as another factor rendering the American Dream illusory. Jende and Neni experience a profound sense of displacement; despite their efforts to assimilate, they are repeatedly reminded of their ‘otherness.’ For instance, Jende’s interactions with Clark reveal a patronising dynamic where his humanity is often overlooked, reducing him to a mere functionary. Likewise, Neni’s pursuit of education is marred by microaggressions and limited resources, reflecting broader societal exclusion. This alienation suggests that the cultural integration promised by the American Dream is superficial, as structural racism and xenophobia create invisible barriers to belonging. Arguably, Mbue illustrates that for immigrants, the dream is not just about financial gain but also social acceptance—a goal that remains frustratingly out of reach.
Personal Sacrifice and Moral Compromise
Furthermore, “Behold the Dreamers” critiques the American Dream by highlighting the personal sacrifices and moral compromises it demands. Jende’s decision to return to Cameroon, despite the hardships there, reflects his ultimate rejection of a dream that requires him to endure constant humiliation and insecurity. Similarly, Neni’s compromises—such as working under exploitative conditions—reveal the harsh realities behind the façade of opportunity. Mbue thus questions whether the pursuit of the American Dream is worth the erosion of dignity and family cohesion, portraying it as a hollow promise that exacts a heavy toll.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Imbolo Mbue’s “Behold the Dreamers” powerfully suggests that the American Dream is, to a significant extent, an illusion, particularly for immigrants like Jende and Neni. Through themes of economic disparity, cultural alienation, and personal sacrifice, the novel critiques the systemic barriers that prevent marginalised individuals from achieving the promised prosperity and acceptance. While it acknowledges the allure of the dream, Mbue ultimately reveals its unattainability for many, exposing the harsh realities beneath its idealistic surface. This critique has broader implications, prompting readers to reconsider the inclusivity of national narratives of success and to question whether the American Dream can ever be truly democratic in a society marked by inequality. Therefore, Mbue’s work serves as a poignant reminder of the gap between aspiration and reality in the pursuit of a better life.
References
- Adams, J.T. (1931) The Epic of America. Little, Brown and Company.
- Mbue, I. (2016) Behold the Dreamers. Random House.
