In the story ‘A Place in the Sun,’ a penniless drifter named George Eastman reaches out to his wealthy uncle, Charles Eastman, seeking work in his bathing suit factory. George’s motifs are unclear as why he quit his bellhop job to find work at the factory. Is something more sinister afoot? Does his position in life reflect the outcome of the story or is his own resolve to blame? George Eastman was not a victim of environmental and societal influences, however, his decisions ultimately led to his downfall. Individuals with high ambitions can live humbly without the need of materialistic items. The need for status and recognition is a choice. To survive in most environments takes drive, on the other hand ambition is a force unto itself. Humans
