Literary Analysis of Paul Loeb’s Book, Soul of a Citizen

It seems that cynicism is all around us. The nightly news, daily internet articles, and social media always present with a new cynical outlook on just about any world event. Loeb tackles cynicism in chapter four of Soul of a Citizen by detailing the main reason behind why we take a cynical view at the world. Loeb concludes that “We give up hope even before we begin.” (83) when addressing how the general population feels about joining community events. Those who do overcome the feeling of hopelessness, they are able to get involved in their community and make a change. I feel that sometimes it is hard to overcome the constant cynical message that is feed to us everyday, but everyone must try. If you never try, you will never succeed. It is as simple as that. Those that do rise above the cynicism will succeed while those do not will have already given up before even trying.

Loeb also touches on populations that are seen as expendable or almost invisible. Most of these populations are somewhat broad such the elderly, minorities (African Americans, Latinos, Asians, etc), and the disabled. There are also smaller groups such as the mortally ill or those that are homeless or poor. All these “expendable” groups can be found across the country, even in the local area of Wilkes-Barre. Our local area contains some of the different smaller groups such as the homeless. These groups tend to be given the cynical smirk from those in a higher economic class or a better position socially. Instead of being cynical towards these groups, those with a better standing in society should give back to the community and those who are less fortunate or have found themselves in a tough time.

Because of this cynical message that we as Americans are fed daily, we tell ourselves that we can’t do anything to change the world. This outlook is simply false. Every person has the chance to change the world if they have the right outlook and the determination to make that change. I try to be as positive as possible in every situation that I am put into. I know from experience that sometimes it is really hard to keep a positive attitude when faced with a difficult situation. With the right attitude anything becomes possible that can lead to incredible results. Sometimes a goal is really impossible to reach, but many things can be accomplished just by trying.

When we step back and look at our situation we are all living in a cynical world. Although the world may make it seem like getting involved in the community is hard, it really isn’t. A positive person’s attitude is contagious and can spread to other making the impossible seem possible.Loeb’s quote “I believe that most of us want to live in a compassionate way, to move beyond cynicism and to help shape a better world.” (100) shows what most people feel about the world. Contrary to what the media and other people portray, every goal is worth pursuing, not because you will reach it, but because you didn’t quit before you began.