America, a nation distinguished by its prosperity and success, is filled with homes whose facades reflect these characteristics--houses composed of nicely trimmed lawns, the family Volkswagen parked on the driveway, friendly neighbors similar to every other family, and the happy 2.5 children playing in the backyard. However, behind the walls of many of these homes reside anything but successful families. These typical nuclear families may be able to imitate “normal” families, but how far can they …showed first 75 words of 1169 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1169 total…his content or not. He could not seriously pursue Anna, for he will be the town’s pariah and live unhappily. On the other hand, if he stays with his family, his desires are being repressed and never executed to experience that moment of joy. Either way, Francis is doomed. John Cheever accomplishes the task of showing the reader that it is the nature of society that will refrain people from reaching their ultimate happiness.