The American Dream -Then And Now- Poem by Tor Magnor Solvang

A chance for all, a hopeful quest,
To rise above, to do your best.
From humble start, a seed to grow,
With honest work, a richer flow.

No matter where your journey lands,
Success is held within your hands.
A life made full, a future bright,
For everyone, with all their might.

A level field, no gates to bar,
Your starting point won't dim your star.
To climb the ladder, step by step,
Each generation's better kept.

To choose your way, to be quite free,
To build your life, for you and me.
To own your path, your work, your home,
Without a fear, where you may roam.

Rewards earned true, by sweat and strain,
Not gifts from blood, again and again.
Your effort counts, your spirit strong,
Is where your rightful place belongs.

But costs climb high, a heavy toll,
On dreams of peace, upon the soul.
A house, a school, to keep you well,
A harder climb, the stories tell.

No steady job, a pension sure,
Now freelance life, can test and lure.
You stand alone, to make your way,
With fewer anchors, day by day.

Success now wears a different face,
Not just a house, a steady pace.
But freedom's call, a flexible day,
A balance sought, along the way.

The young and poor, they often see,
A different path, less wild and free.
While older, richer, hold it dear,
The dream feels far, to those held near.

A mountain debt for degrees they buy,
While screens demand a watchful eye.
Connected always, yet apart,
The digital weight upon the heart.