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A & P By John Updike Teen Culture

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The short story "A&P" by John Updike effectively portrays various traits of teen culture that were prevalent in the 1960s Through the protagonist Sammy's actions and experiences, Updike embeds and showcases rebellion, idealism, and sexual awakening as key traits of teen culture during that era. Firstly, rebellion is exemplified in Sammy's act of quitting his job at the grocery store. Updike describes Sammy's frustration with the conformity and hypocrisy he witnesses among his co-workers and customers, stating, "But it seems to me that once you begin a gesture, it's fatal not to go through with it" (Updike 1). This quote from the text showcases Sammy's impulsive act of defiance, symbolizing the countercultural movement that emerged among teenagers

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