Life is like a high school party. The short stories "The Thing Around Your Neck," by Chimimanda Ngozi Adichie; "Araby," by James Joyce; and "A&P," by John Updike all reflect that life is inherently disappointing due to high expectations.
"The Thing Around Your Neck," a short story by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, explores defects in the perception of the American Dream. Akunna is a Nigerian who views her life in the United States as worse than her previous life in Africa. This is largely due to a series of unfortunate events which do not correspond with her family's promises of wealth. In reality, Akunna is much more fortunate in this new life than she was in Lagos, Nigeria.
James Joyce's "Araby" is another short story in which the protagonist is torn aport by failed expectations. He spends days glorifying the bazaar where he is planning to buy a gift for the girl he is infatuated with. However, because of his drunken uncle and rude salespeople, he arrives at the bazaar late and cannot find a present that is desireable enough for his love.
"A&P," a short story by John Updike, tells the tale of a cashier named Sammy who quickly falls for a customer. He quits his job (after his manager embarrasses the girl) in an attempt to get her attention. Sadly, his grand gesture goes unnoticed. Sammy realizes how difficult life is going to treat him after this hopeful stunt.
These short stories reflect one of life's most prominent patterns: rejection. Whether a person is let down due to broken promises, unsuccessful expeditions, or fruitless love pursuits, guilded expectations always end up warping reality
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