Language & Logic

This post is part of my classics-plus-nonfiction project. I pair a novel with a research article and ask: what do they say to each other—and to my life?

Ambition both inspires and isolates, and its impact depends on whether it is self-defined or imposed by others. This theme connects Little Women and the research article “Adolescents’ Beliefs About Ambition.” Together, they show that ambition is not simply good or bad. It can give young people purpose, but it can also create pressure when it does not align with their values.

Jo March’s ambition to become a writer shows the power of determination. She insists, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship,” and her boldness is inspiring. Yet her independence also isolates her when she refuses Laurie’s proposal and rejects the traditional path of marriage. Jo’s story illustrates that ambition can bring fulfillment, but it may also demand sacrifice and loneliness.

The article confirms this tension. It explains that teenagers often view ambition as both empowering and stressful, concluding that “ambition that misaligns with personal values may undermine well-being.” Many students feel proud when they pursue their goals, while others feel crushed under pressure to meet family or cultural expectations. This is similar to Jo’s conflict: she longs to succeed on her own terms, yet society continues to push its version of success on her.

In my own life, I feel this same tension. At Andover Summer Camp, I wanted to push myself, but I often compared my achievements to others. Ambition gave me drive, yet it also created anxiety, like I could never measure up. Swimming captures this duality: waking up at 5:30 a.m. for practice proves my discipline, but it sometimes leaves me exhausted and doubtful. Still, like Jo, I’ve realized that ambition is strongest when it connects to passion—whether in the pool, in writing, or in leadership—rather than when I chase someone else’s definition of success.

For me, the lesson is clear: ambition will matter most when it aligns with my values, discipline in swimming, curiosity in writing, and courage to resist easy paths.

Pearl’s Note:

What’s one goal that actually feels like yours (not borrowed)? I’m collecting examples for a follow-up post.