Rags to BillionairesThe quintessential American is someone who has aspirations, capable of self-improvement and personal invention. Jay Gatsby and Oprah Winfrey display all of these qualities. They never settle for less, they have goals and reinvent themselves. From humble backgrounds to exciting new lives. They prove that anyone can be anything they want if they put their mind to it. Instantly, their lives changed for the better with just one change in their life. Jay leaves his house and Oprah becomes recognized for her vocals. These two display qualities of perseverance, strength and will that everyone needs to become the quintessential American. Jay Gatsby shows how he changes himself to invent a completely new person. He was never satisfied with what he grew up with. His parents were farmers in North Dakota. It never felt this way about him. When he was sixteen he left. He later meets Dan Cody, with whom he becomes fascinated. So, he learns everything to face a new life from Dan. He changed his name to pursue this goal. “James Gatz… that was really, or at least legally, his name. He had changed it at the age of seventeen…” (98) He was never satisfied with what he had. When he became a billionaire, he never got close to anyone. Many of those who attended his lavish parties never knew anything about Gatsby. So, they made up delusional rumors about him. “He killed a man once…He was a German spy during the war.”(44) Gatsby stayed away from most people. He only had eyes for one goal. Five years ago, Jay Gatsby had the pleasure of meeting Daisy Buchanan. He fell in love with her instantly. When the war broke out he was condemned to leave her alone. Daisy can never be alone, when Gatsby tells her to wait for him in the letter, s...... middle of paper...... She has donated millions of dollars to various charities and organizations, with the most part of his money goes to three foundations: The Angel Network, The Oprah Winfrey Foundation and The Oprah Winfrey Operating Foundation. ” (Oprah: Charity Work & Causes). Her generosity has helped her to be the quintessential American. Additionally, both people have large sums of money and are not afraid to spend it. Jay Gatsby throws lavish parties that he attends the entire New York City. While Oprah helps children build the foundation for their lives. Not only that, they aspired to become better. They improved and reinvented themselves to achieve and maintain these goals full happiness because they had no significant other. Their lives were empty, without a family of their own they never let that get in the way of pursuing what they want.