A small twig ladder with a glove draped over its top stands beneath a pale crescent moon.

Original artwork, not a still

You Can't Go Home Again

Thomas Wolfe

So, then, to every man his chance-to every man, regardless of his birth, his shining, golden opportunity-to every man the right to live, to work, to be himself, and to become whatever thing his manhood and his vision can combine to make him-this, seeker, is the promise of America.

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

The speaker describes America's promise as a chance for everyone, whatever their birth. Each person should have the right to live, work, be themselves and become whatever their character and vision can shape. It is an ardent statement of open opportunity addressed to a seeker.

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