The American Ambition Quotes

Newman doesn't feel shy about taking from the world, as long as he gives back. That's how he acquires wealth…and that same philosophy drives a lot of his interpersonal actions as well. He feels like it's a-okay to be socially greedy, as long as he gives social charity.

For all of his ambition, Newman can't generate a title out of thin air. That's where he flounders in France—he thinks that he can buy his way into high society. Unfortunately for him, Europeans are less interested in self-made men than Americans are.

Newman is still coming to terms with the fact that status can't be bought in his new community. He's so bewildered by this that he even has to speak slowly. The idea is inconceivable for him, because he was raised in "by your bootstraps" America.