Topic > Passionless Ambition in Goodman's "The Company Man"

Ellen Goodman's social commentary on the archetypal businessman who neglects family and life for ambition is enriched by her condescending tone and sarcasm. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Goodman uses the “Phil” archetype to emphasize the automated lifestyle in an ambitious, passionless lifestyle. The way “Phil” is described in terms of extrinsic factors, such as “workaholic” and “overweight.” With this Goodman dehumanizes "Phil" and makes him a mechanical drone. “Finally and precisely” is repeated three times throughout the column and is used only to describe “Phil's” death. This repetition of specific words is forced to dehumanize "Phil" and show the lack of sympathy Goodman has towards him. The mathematical feel of "precisely" is emphasized as Goodman repeats the age of all of these, as well as the specific time that "Phil" died, and the numerical record of the days he worked each is included in the illusion of a logistical world, with no room for emotions. The sentences give an idea of ​​Goodman's disgust towards the corporate man who lacks humanity and the spirit of life. Goodman reveals the flaws in a world centered on ambition as he depicts the monotony and futility of corporate actions. The work environment in which "Phil" works is highly competitive. “Phil” was “one of three who could, conceivably, if the president had died or retired early enough, have risen to first place.” These corporate men lack compassion and only see death as an opportunity to advance. Yet on the afternoon of the funeral, the boss for whom "Phil" had given his life asked "Phil's" three subordinates, who had been seriously considered for his job, "Who worked the hardest?" The corporate world has not failed him and his efforts. “Phil” was just a tool to be used, an automaton that works until he dies and then is replaced. But because of his infatuation with power, he forgot what was truly worth fighting for. Goodman reveals his pain as he states the emotional tragedy "Phil" had caused with his negligence. He left behind a wife who had “stopped competing with his job years ago,” but has continued to miss her ever since. "Phil" and everyone else like him have spent so much time focusing, in a life that reaps no rewards, that they haven't noticed that humanity has surpassed them. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Ellen Goodman reveals her bitter attitude towards the kind of people "Phil" represents to get those living the same lifestyle to recognize their lack of life. He writes as a warning to serve and ensure that those who are following the same path take action and fill their lives with the warmth of love, before it is too late..