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As an allusion to the American self-conception American Gothic fiction represents  the "American Nightmare". That dark downside of the so-called "American Dream" reveals the limits of the American faith in social and economical progress. Gothic literature reflects the contradictions of the society at that time.

Yes, I agree with this!  I'm not sure there is the Utopian "American Dream" anymore.  Our world has changed so much that we have to make our own "American Dream" by making due with what we have.  Of course there is the dark side of America, yes.  More Americans than ever are disenchanted with the government and the economy.  This truly affects the American people's attitudes about the future.  When times are tough, some resort to the "dark side," meaning stealing and robbing, extorting, cheating, etc.  

Thanks for that answer! You really surprised me by saying that you are not sure if the American Dream still exists. I think here in Germany we still consider the States the country the place that can take you from Rags to Riches:-). So to us the concept of the American Dream is still very present - despite all the problems we see... I really love your country and can`t wait to go there again:-)).

It`s 1 a.m. in Germany, time to go to bed.

It was really nice "talking" to you!