35 pages • 1 hour read
For Every One
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Themes
The Pursuit of Dreams
In For Every One, the pursuit of dreams takes center stage. Jason Reynolds portrays the pursuit as an intricate and multifaceted process marked by determination, persistent striving, and the profound quest for personal fulfillment. He emphasizes that the pursuit transcends mere achievement. Rather, it catalyzes personal growth and resilience amid uncertainties.
Reynolds sees dreams as an integral part of human existence and development. He emphasizes that the essence of dreaming goes beyond specific aspirations; rather, it lies in the pursuit itself. Reynolds refers to the dream as “the nugget of thin air” that he “cling[s] tight to” to survive (4). Just as humans cannot exist without air, the human spirit cannot thrive without dreams. They are necessary for our existence, vitality, and for human survival. Reynolds’s comparison of dreams to physical features, such as a “mole” behind the ear, portrays them as innate and distinctive characteristics. By likening dreams to distinct physical attributes, Reynolds emphasizes that dreams are an integral and inseparable aspect of every person’s being. They are inherent, unique to each individual.
Reynolds suggests that having a dream contributes to an individual’s uniqueness and makes them “special.” However, true greatness arises from the pursuit rather than the mere possession or accomplishment of the dream. One is elevated to greatness through “courage in trying,” embracing life with fervor, and acknowledging surrounding beauty (90).
Reynolds subverts traditional ideas. Rather than pursuing his dream, it was initially his dream that pursued him, “a rabid beast” that sought him out in his youth (84). This illustrates the intense and forceful nature of encountering his dream at a young age. He acknowledges that realizing his dream may or may not occur. However, he found valuable treasures amid challenging circumstances, which he symbolizes as discoveries under heavy stones, behind “massive trees,” and within “dark caves” (88). These have significantly contributed to his life.
Reynolds uses an extended metaphor, which “is a version of metaphor that extends over the course of multiple lines, paragraphs, or stanzas of prose or poetry. Extended metaphors build upon simple metaphors with figurative language and more varied, descriptive comparisons” (“What Is Extended Metaphor? Definition, Examples, and Structure of Extended Metaphor.” MasterClass, 2021). In this case, he compares the pursuit of his dream to journeying along a trail while following his elusive beast. He asserts that it is not the dream itself that has shaped his identity, but rather the relentless pursuit of that dream.
Throughout the novel, Reynolds emphasizes that pursuing dreams is an integral aspect of personal growth and resilience in the face of uncertainty. The narrative celebrates the bravery and determination inherent in chasing dreams, and the significance of this pursuit in shaping individuals.
Resilience Amid Life’s Challenges
The novel showcases how individuals navigate, endure, and ultimately triumph over obstacles through persistence, determination, and an unyielding spirit, ultimately leading to personal growth and triumph.
Despite being burned out by his worldly worries and “swollen with exhaustion” (49), Reynolds does not abandon his dream, demonstrating resilience. He recognizes that nurturing his dream is essential: “IT JUST NEEDS TO BE FED” (50). In turn, the dream “feeds [him] everything” he has and wishes for (51). In this way, Reynolds emphasizes the reciprocal nature of resilience and perseverance. His repetition of “JUMP ANYWAY” encourages readers to be brave and leap into the unknown, and to embody resilience and determination in the face of life’s uncertainties. One should take bold steps despite the absence of clear “timelines” or straightforward paths. Reynolds emphasizes how it is important to push forward, echoing his idea that taking the leap, despite apprehensions, is crucial when pursuing dreams.
Understanding and controlling one’s dreams are an intricate and constantly evolving processes. Throughout the novel, Reynolds draws a distinction between individuals characterized as experts and those adopting a non-expert perspective. He critiques the conventional advice peddled by experts, who promise a formulaic path to success and fulfillment. These experts advocate for structured, programmatic approaches encapsulated in phrases like “one plus one” and “right foot / left foot,” illustrating their rigid perspectives and how they embody stereotypical societal norms (22).
Reynolds highlights how these experts fail to acknowledge the emotional complexity of resilience and perseverance inherent in pursuing dreams. The books associated with these experts, despite their good intentions, are potentially counterproductive. They foster fear and external expectations that hinder individuals from embracing courage and the experimentation necessary for pursuing dreams. Reynolds emphasizes that resilience and perseverance thrive outside the confines of conventional wisdom. He aims to empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges with an unwavering spirit.
The Transformative Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
The pursuit of dreams intertwines with the exploration of identity. In pursuing one’s dreams, one undertakes a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal evolution. The pursuit of dreams is a catalyst for growth and understanding.
In his pursuit of dreams, Reynolds underwent a significant process of self-discovery. While it’s uncertain if he will achieve his elusive dream, Reynolds emphasizes that he had valuable self-realizations during his journey. His pursuit of dreams made him “the human / that [he is]” now (88). He reassures younger dreamers of the value of their dreams and their evolving nature over time. In a deliberate appeal to a younger audience, Reynolds frequently references the ages he was at pivotal moments in his life. He recounts experiences at ages 16, 18, and 25, aiming to relate to a youthful audience. Although he doesn’t have all the answers, at 28 he discovered parts of himself that were not known to him earlier. He reinforces the transformative nature of pursuing dreams and how it contributes to personal growth and self-understanding.
Reynolds’s mother epitomizes self-discovery and growth. After spending 40 years working tirelessly behind a desk, she eventually discovers and lives out her passions of teaching, baking, and aiding others. Her story illustrates the endurance and perseverance necessary to sustain one’s dreams over time. Despite the years spent in a conventional job, her resilience and determination enable her to realize her long-held aspirations.
Reynolds highlights the value of dreams in the face of age-related dismissiveness. He suggests that one’s journey of self-discovery transcends age boundaries, and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and patience in navigating the complexities of personal growth.
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