Individualism

Individualism is a consistent and dominant theme throughout Dave Eggers's collection of short stories, "How We Are Hungry." Individualism consists of being independent, self-reliant, and responsible for oneself. The effects of individualism among many of the main characters in Egger's stories vary. Sometimes, the outcomes of such individualism are positive and refreshing, while at other times, individualism is bittersweet at best, and tragic at worst.

In terms of the positive outcomes of individualism, character growth is somehow present. Characters in the stories "The Only Meaning of the Oil-Wet Water" and "Quiet" experience these sorts of growth. Pilar, while trekking halfway around the world to see the man she loves, may at first glance not seem to be much of an individual, for the object of her desire is the catalyst for her journey. Yet, in a deeper sense, the journey to Costa Rica demonstrates that she is capable...