A&P

In the classic short story “A & P”, John Updike portrays a pessimistic view of the role of the individual in society. The society he presents to the reader is one in which its citizens follow pre-determined rules, a set path, and similar habits. The individual has no role in this society, and any attempt to escape these set customs will result in shame. Well before the dramatic opportunity presents itself for Sammy, the protagonist, to …

…to today’s society. Today people believe that they are making their own rules and following a path of individuality, when they are really following a path of conformity. Sammy does not realize, until the end of the story, that he cannot be successful without following the rules that others have set for him. Updike’s uniform society still exists beneath the surface, and no single person can guide enough people to make a change.