Who is the author of 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

The author of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' is Budd Schulberg.

What are the main themes in 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

The main themes in 'What Makes Sammy Run?' include Social Commentary, Fiction, Literature.

What genre is 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

'What Makes Sammy Run?' is categorized as Literature, Fiction.

What is the main theme of 'What Makes Sammy Run?'

The main theme of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' is the corrupting influence of ambition and the ruthless nature of the entertainment industry. The novel explores how the desire for success can lead individuals to abandon their morals and values, as exemplified by the character Sammy Glick, who will do anything to achieve fame and power in Hollywood. Additionally, the book critiques the societal obsession with success and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of the American Dream.

Who is Sammy Glick and what drives his ambition?

Sammy Glick is the ambitious and ruthless protagonist of Budd Schulberg's novel 'What Makes Sammy Run?'. He is a young journalist who is determined to climb the ranks of the newspaper business in 1930s New York City. Sammy is driven by an insatiable desire for success, power, and recognition. His ambition is fueled by a relentless pursuit of fame and wealth, which leads him to manipulate others and exploit situations to achieve his goals. His character embodies the desperate quest for success at any cost, showcasing the moral complexities of ambition in the cutthroat world of journalism.

In what way does the book reflect the nature of the media industry in America?

'What Makes Sammy Run?' by Budd Schulberg provides a critical examination of the media industry in America during the 1940s, reflecting its competitive nature and the moral complexities involved. The novel showcases the ruthless ambition of its protagonist, Sammy Glick, who rises through the ranks of the newspaper business by exploiting others and disregarding ethical boundaries. The portrayal of a cutthroat atmosphere within the media industry highlights how success often requires sacrificing integrity, friendship, and personal values for ambition and fame. Furthermore, the book underscores the role of sensationalism in journalism, illustrating how the demand for eye-catching stories can compromise the quality of reporting, ultimately shaping public perception and societal values.

What are some significant challenges faced by the protagonist, Al Manheim?

Al Manheim, the protagonist of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' by Budd Schulberg, faces several significant challenges throughout the novel. Moral Dilemma: Al struggles with his own moral compass as he navigates the cutthroat world of Hollywood. He is often torn between his desire for success and the ethical implications of his actions. Ambition vs. Integrity: Al's ambition to succeed in the world of journalism conflicts with his integrity as he observes Sammy Glick's ruthless climb to the top. He grapples with the idea of compromising his values for professional advancement. Relationship Struggles: Al's relationships, particularly with women and his colleagues, are strained by his fixation on Sammy and the world of fame. His professional decisions often alienate him from those who care about him. Understanding Sammy Glick: One of Al's significant challenges is trying to comprehend the driving force behind Sammy's relentless ambition and lack of empathy. This obsession with understanding Sammy leads to internal conflict and professional dilemmas. Personal Reflection: Al is also faced with a personal crisis as he examines his own life choices while witnessing Sammy's rise. This reflection forces him to confront his own aspirations and the realities of success in a morally ambiguous world.

How does Budd Schulberg portray the concept of success in the novel?

In 'What Makes Sammy Run?', Budd Schulberg portrays the concept of success as a double-edged sword, highlighting both its allure and its moral consequences. The protagonist, Sammy Glick, is depicted as an ambitious and ruthless character who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals in the world of journalism. Schulberg illustrates how success is often linked to manipulation, deceit, and the exploitation of others, suggesting that the pursuit of success can lead to a loss of integrity and humanity. Through Sammy's journey, the novel critiques the superficial nature of success in the entertainment industry and raises questions about what it truly means to be successful. Ultimately, while Sammy achieves his aspirations, his character serves as a cautionary tale about the emptiness that can accompany such ambition.

What Makes Sammy Run?

In 'What Makes Sammy Run?', Budd Schulberg explores the dark underbelly of ambition in the world of screenwriting and Hollywood. The story follows a young, relentless go-getter named Sammy Glick, whose insatiable drive for success leads him to manipulate anyone in his path. Through the eyes of a disillusioned writer, readers are taken on a thrilling journey of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of climbing the social ladder. As Sammy's star rises, so do questions about morality, integrity, and the true meaning of success. Will Sammy's fast track to fame come with a price that he may not be willing to pay?

By Budd Schulberg

Published: 1993

""The truth is that ambition is the strongest drug of all, and the hunger for success can drive a man to run without ever looking back.""

Literature Fiction Social Commentary

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What Readers Say About This Book

The classic book that shaped two generations’ view of the movie business and introduced the archetypal Hollywood player Sammy Glick. He’s got a machete mouth and a genius for double-cross. As Budd Shulberg—author of the screenplay On the Waterfront—follows Sammy’s relentless upward progress, he creates a virtuoso study in character that manages to be hilariously appalling yet deeply compassionate. “Sammy Glick remains at the top of the Hollywood sleaze heap, a hustler nonpareil…. What Makes Sammy Run? Is still the quintessential novel about “the all-American heel.’” – Moredcai Richler, GQ

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Key Points from What Makes Sammy Run?

In "What Makes Sammy Run?", author Budd Schulberg intricately weaves the plot development around the rise of Sammy Glick, a young and ambitious man who will stop at nothing to ascend the ranks of Hollywood's screenwriting elite. Beginning with Sammy's obscure origins—working as a newspaper boy in New York—the narrative vividly portrays his relentless drive for success, juxtaposed with the moral compromises he makes along his journey. For instance, his rise is marked by manipulative tactics, such as exploiting friendships and betraying colleagues, illustrating his quest for power at any cost. The climax unfolds as Sammy achieves his dream of becoming a renowned screenwriter, but this triumph comes at a steep price: he becomes increasingly isolated, alienating those around him, and sacrificing his integrity. This transformation highlights the book’s broader themes of ambition, the corrupting influence of power, and the hollow nature of success in a cutthroat industry. Schulberg’s nuanced portrayal of Sammy's character not only provides a critique of Hollywood’s moral landscape but also serves as a cautionary tale about the costs of unchecked ambition, making this plot arc significant in understanding the dynamics of personal aspiration versus ethical considerations.

About the Author

Budd Schulberg

Budd Schulberg (1914-2009) was an American screenwriter and novelist, renowned for his deep understanding of the American social landscape and its complexities. He is best known for his acclaimed novel 'What Makes Sammy Run?' which explores the ruthless ambition of a young writer in the entertainment industry. Schulberg's other notable works include 'The Harder They Fall,' a piercing critique of the boxing world, and 'On the Waterfront,' which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Story. His writing style is characterized by sharp dialogue, vivid characterizations, and a keen sense of irony, often reflecting the moral ambiguities of American life. Schulberg's contributions to literature and film have earned him a prominent place in 20th-century American culture.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Budd Schulberg
Published: December 1993
Publisher: Vintage
ISBN: 0679734228
Language: English
Pages: 351
Genres: Social CommentaryFictionLiterature

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