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  • Essay / Passionless Ambition in Goodman's "The Company Man"

    Ellen Goodman's social critique of the archetypal businessman who neglects family and life in favor of ambition is reinforced by his condescending tone and sarcasm. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayGoodman uses the archetype of “Phil” to emphasize the automated lifestyle in an aspirational and without passion. The way "Phil" is described in terms of extrinsic factors, such as "workaholic" and "overweight." With this, Goodman dehumanizes "Phil" and turns him into a mechanical drone. “Finally and precisely” is repeated three times in the chronicle and is only used to describe the death of “Phil”. This repetition of specific words is reinforced to dehumanize "Phil" and show Goodman's lack of sympathy towards him. The mathematical vibe of "precisely" is emphasized when Goodman repeats the ages of all of these, as well as the precise time of "Phil's" death, and the number of days he worked each is included in the The illusion of a logistical world, with no room for emotion. The sentences provide insight into Goodman's disgust with the businessman who lacks humanity and spirit of life. Goodman reveals the flaws of an ambition-driven world as she describes the monotony and futility of corporate actions. The work environment that “Phil” works in is very competitive. “Phil” was “one of three who could possibly – if the president died or retired soon enough – have risen to the top spot.” These businessmen are without compassion and view death only as an opportunity to move forward. Yet, on the afternoon of the funeral, the boss for whom "Phil" had given his life asked "Phil's" three subordinates, who were being seriously considered for his position: "Who worked the hardest?" The corporate world has not missed him or his efforts. “Phil” was just a tool to be used, an automaton that works until he dies and then is replaced. But because of his craze for power, he forgot what was truly worth fighting for. Goodman reveals his grief by discussing the emotional tragedy that "Phil" caused with his neglect. He left a woman who had “given up on competing with her job years ago,” but continues to miss him ever since. "Phil" and everyone else like him have spent so much time focused, in a life that yields no rewards, that they haven't noticed that humanity has left them behind. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.Get a Custom EssayEllen Goodman reveals her bitter attitude towards the type of people "Phil" represents to get those living the same lifestyle to recognize their lack of life. She writes as a warning to serve and ensure that those who embark on the same path take action and fill their lives with the warmth of love, before it is too late..