The Just-Add-Water Kennedys and Barbecue Bread Violence

Polyestra's opening response, "fewer than one percent of Americans break out of the social class they are born into", actually does not shock me. I think it is very difficult to have a large economic increase from one generation to the next, due to the fact that large sums of money are not simply thrown at you, unless you win the lottery, which doesn't occur to just anyone. Another way to receive large sums of money relatively fast would be by talent. For example, if a very talented singer or football player were to be born in the lower class or middle class life, using their talents to become famous would be a complete turn-around for them. This would cause a class jump in their lives.
The American dream has many meanings, but for this particular exerpt, it was based on finances. The American dream to many families is the white-pickett fence, two car garage, and big backyard. It is unfortunate that even though many people have this vision, it will merely stay a dream, not reality. However, this was not the case for Polyestra's family. Her parents were influenced by their parents that every generation must increase financially. It was frustrating for them because their wishes weren't coming true no matter how hard they tried.
Finally, Polyestra's father pulled through for the family and landed a high paying real estate career. Because the extra money was new to them, they went out on a spending spree and did not stop until they have bought everything from new clothes to new cars. Also, their attitudes went from hopeful, to snobby. They ate outside at places just to show off the money that they have. Her dad ended up getting drunk, and yelling at random strangers. Obviously his money had advanced, but his attitude and behavior had not.
Polyestra's father had chosen to commit suicide. I feel there will always be a 'what if' question for that family. What if they had not received that sudden burst of money? Would they still have to be in that present situation? What does this say about what money can do to the American family? I believe that money can have just as many disadvantages as advantages. Clearly, this short story shows both of the ups and downs of the situation.