Michael's Writing Portfolio

It is an interesting story with a happy ending. After poring over it for three times, I finally discover the truth derived from the vivid depiction of Jewish life in New York, that is the true essence of Americanization.

I admire Shadrach Cohen because he has the faculty of adaptibility that his two sons don’t have. Although his sons arrived at New York five years before him and they had already dressed like Americans, they had not learned the essence of American culture. I have read many books about American life, and I know this country is like a melting pot for various cultures. I think Americans admire diversity and they adore those who own the true ability and wisdom. Abel and Gottlieb may have adapted to American life in their dress and behavior, but they don't possess the true ability which is key to business success.

In my eyes, Shadrach Cohen is an excellent businessman. He has successful business experience in Russia, and has the most important character of a businessman—the faculty of adaptibility. It seems hard for a worm to turn over, but when it happens, it is significant. At first Shadrach clung to his habits and customs with tenacity. However, when he decided to change, he did it to everyone’s surprise. He run the business in person and taught his sons the recipe for success. He became broader-minded, more tolerant and more flexible in his tenets. His Americanization is not superficial and the process even affects his two sons. Not only does their  business begin to prosper where respect is shown to their father from American business men, who have never evinced such respect to them, but they also come to realize the important function of the religion serving as an unique and peaceful consolation to their souls. I think Shadrach Cohen has  demonstrated the true essence of Americanzation.

The story gives me a revelation that the true essence of Americanization lies upon its true spirits and characteristics rather than superficial imitation. Adapting to the new environment does not necessarily mean a scornful attitude toward the original culture, just as shown in the case of Shadrach Cohen. The true essence of Americanization is the faculty of adaptibility to adjust to a new environment while upholding your own cultural virtues.