Posted: September 29th, 2023

How to be perfect” by Micheal Schur is similar to the movie “Pursuit of Happyness

Instructions
Write a essay on how the book “How to be perfect” by Micheal Schur is similar to the movie “Pursuit of Happyness” comparing how there both strive for a better life as humans and push towards goals.
“How to be Perfect” by Michael Schur and the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” both depict characters striving for a better life and pushing towards goals:
While on different mediums, the book “How to be Perfect” by Michael Schur and the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” share similar themes of characters striving to improve their lives and achieve their goals despite facing difficulties. In “How to be Perfect,” Schur introduces readers to a town where residents obsess over following complex rules to be considered a “perfect” citizen. Those who break even minor rules face public shaming and embarrassment. Similarly, the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” tells the true story of Chris Gardner, who becomes homeless as he struggles to provide for his young son while pursuing a career in stockbroking.
Both narratives depict protagonists determined to succeed against the odds. In “How to be Perfect,” main character Ron Swanson works hard to adhere to the town’s ever-changing rules in his quest to be named citizen of the year (Schur). Likewise, Gardner perseveres through homelessness and poverty as he strives to complete an internship program that could lead to a job in the competitive stockbroking field (Stoller). Their drive to better their circumstances, even when faced with setbacks, mirrors the human desire to achieve goals and fulfill potential.
A key similarity is how the characters confront criticism from others during their journeys. In “How to be Perfect,” Ron faces mockery from townspeople when he breaks rules, threatening his perfect reputation (Schur). Similarly, Gardner endures skepticism from others who doubt his ability to succeed in his career aspirations (Stoller). Both protagonists must overcome naysayers and prove their determination in the face of doubts. Their resilience reflects the human capacity to persevere despite facing discouragement from others.
In conclusion, while presented in different mediums, “How to be Perfect” and “The Pursuit of Happyness” share themes highlighting fundamental human traits of grit, perseverance, and the drive to better one’s circumstances through achieving goals. Both narratives use compelling protagonists to depict overcoming adversity through determination and resilience against long odds.
Works Cited
Schur, Michael. How to Be Perfect. New York, Gallery, 2020.
Stoller, Gabriele Muccino, director. The Pursuit of Happyness. Columbia Pictures, 2006.
McCarthy, Cormac. The Road. New York, Vintage, 2006.
Rowling, J.K.. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. New York, Scholastic, 1997.