"Going Places" by A.R. Barton is a short story that explores the themes of ambition, conformity, and the desire for recognition. The story revolves around a young boy named Robert who harbors dreams of success and popularity.
Robert is an average student who often daydreams during class. He is fascinated by the adventurous tales of famous explorers and longs to have similar experiences himself. Robert's aspirations make him stand out from his classmates who are content with mediocrity.
One day, Robert and his friend Larry discover an advertisement for a bicycle race with a grand prize—a trip to Europe. This ignites Robert's ambition, and he becomes determined to participate in the race and win the coveted prize.
As the story progresses, Robert's single-minded pursuit of success takes precedence over everything else. He dedicates his time and energy to training for the race, neglecting his studies and distancing himself from his friends. His obsession with winning becomes evident as he becomes increasingly competitive and focused on achieving his goal.
Despite facing obstacles and setbacks during the race, Robert's determination and talent enable him to emerge as the frontrunner. However, just as victory seems within reach, Robert is faced with a difficult decision. He realizes that winning the race would mean sacrificing his values and integrity by taking a shortcut to success.
In a moment of clarity, Robert chooses to abandon the race and break away from the crowd. He recognizes the shallowness of his ambitions and the emptiness of conforming to societal expectations. Robert chooses to embrace his own individuality and pursue his own unique path, separate from the desire for recognition and popularity.
"Going Places" is a coming-of-age story that delves into the themes of ambition and the importance of staying true to oneself. It serves as a reminder that success should not be measured solely by external achievements but by personal fulfillment and living in alignment with one's values. The story encourages readers to question societal norms, define their own paths, and find fulfillment in their individual journeys.