Eschewing tradition has long been characteristic of the American way, from the time when the pilgrims abandoned the feudal system of Europe to the present day when young people strive to cover every inch of their skin with tattoos. Americans are suspicious of tradition, yet celebratory of innovation and novelty. In this culture, being unique is valued as much as being hardworking or intelligent, and is certainly considered superior to being meek, timid, or obedient.
This culture of individualism is reflected in American art and literature. The literature serves as a record that documents a shift in the culture, from being quite collectivist at first to becoming increasingly more individualistic, with this trend continuing currently. American values have changed drastically since the days of the Puritans, and the literature both reflects and invokes this change.
Particularly, the works of transcendentalists — beginning with Emerson’s “Nature” essay — served as a catalyst for the great shift in American culture from collectivism to individualism.
Sophisticated Innocence 