Gary Shteyngart’s "Sixty-nine Cents"

Gary Shteyngart’s short story “Sixty-Nine Cents” is a poignant and humorous exploration of the immigrant experience in America. Through the protagonist Vladmir Girshkin, the story delves into themes of identity, assimilation, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Shteyngart’s use of humor and irony serves to highlight the challenges and contradictions faced by immigrants as they navigate the complexities of American society.

One of the central themes of “Sixty-Nine Cents” is the struggle for identity and belonging. Vladmir, a recent immigrant from Russia, grapples with his sense of self as he tries to adapt to his new surroundings. He is constantly torn between his Russian heritage and the pressures to assimilate into American culture. This internal conflict is evident in his attempt to change his name to the more American-sounding “Vlad,” as well as his obsession with American pop culture and consumerism. Shteyngart skillfully portrays the inner turmoil experienced by many immigrants as they try to reconcile their past with their present.

Furthermore, “Sixty-Nine Cents” explores the theme of the American Dream and the pursuit of success. Vladmir’s job at the “Emma Lazarus Immigrant Absorption Society” reflects the irony of the American Dream, as he struggles to make ends meet while working for an organization that promises to help immigrants achieve success in America. Shteyngart uses this irony to comment on the harsh realities faced by many immigrants who come to America in search of a better life, only to encounter economic hardship and social barriers. The story poignantly captures the disillusionment and disappointment that can accompany the pursuit of the American Dream.

Additionally, Shteyngart’s use of humor and satire adds depth to the narrative, allowing him to shed light on the absurdities and contradictions inherent in the immigrant experience. Vladmir’s comical attempts to fit in with American society, such as his obsession with fast food and his awkward interactions with his American colleagues, serve to highlight the cultural barriers and misunderstandings that often arise between immigrants and their new environment. The humor in the story serves as a mechanism for coping with the challenges of immigration, while also providing a lens through which to examine the complexities of cultural assimilation.

Overall, “Sixty-Nine Cents” is a thought-provoking and insightful portrayal of the immigrant experience in America. Shteyngart skillfully navigates the themes of identity, assimilation, and the American Dream, using humor and irony to shed light on the struggles and contradictions faced by immigrants. The story serves as a powerful commentary on the complexities of cultural adaptation and the pursuit of success in a new and unfamiliar environment.