Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in The Flivver King, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Capitalism and Dehumanization
American Idealism and Disillusionment
Misinformation, Media Bias, and Ignorance
Individualism vs. Unionization
Technology and Progress
Summary
Analysis
To create a new product, Ford faces a dilemma, as most of his machines only make the Model T. Ford is forced to shut down his plant to refashion the machines, and 100,000 men are laid off as this happens, including Abner. John again finds Abner a job as a sweeper in the welding factory; he makes $6 a day. As Abner works, he observes huge machines being replaced or remodeled in the factories.
Ford’s desire for profit leads him to make new models, but as a result, Ford completely disregards his workers. Shutting down the factories on a whim is a clear indicator of the cruelty of the capitalist system, as thousands of men no longer have means of providing for their families as a result.
Themes
After five months, the factories reopen and the new cars are in production. The New Model A is advertised in all the papers: it is more stylish and has “a bit of the European touch,” which Ford resents. The old-time American style is gone, and the new car is so successful that Ford makes a million cars in the first six months.
Ford clearly values the older American styles, as he is resentful of anything that isn’t traditionally American and nostalgic. Yet at the same time, his desire for profit wins out over these ideals, demonstrating how it is easier to achieve prosperity and security by throwing out some of one’s morals.
Themes
