In “The Day of the Grasshopper” by Nathanael West, several characters are introduced in Hollywood, California, which is widely considered the nation's capital of the film industry . One of the main characters in focus throughout the novel is Tod Hackett, who West describes as being superior to the fantasy observed around him. Many characters have come to Hollywood in pursuit of an ambitious, personal goal. However, there is a recurring theme of failure in their pursuits due to the fictional personalities and actions they have created for themselves, influenced by a setting full of artificiality. The atmosphere of the film industry in Hollywood, California has a great influence throughout the novel with its emphasis on manufacturing. When Tod Hackett comes home after a long day of work as a set designer, he tends to look at his surroundings. In one particular passage in the novel, he intently observes the houses in the canyon near his home: “But even the gentle breath of dusk could not help the houses. Only dynamite would be of any use against the Mexican ranches, Samoan cabins, Mediterranean villas, Egyptian and Japanese temples, Swiss chalets, Tudor cottages, and every possible combination of these styles that lined the canyon slopes." (61). These architectural works are designed to represent the diversity of architectural works from cultures around the world. However, side by side, the houses are more imitations of the cultures they represent, made of paper and plaster. Similar to the characters in the novel, the houses attempt to reproduce something that they are not. They are there to represent fantasy through its superficial characteristics and arouse admiration, which Tod notices and reacts with...... middle of paper...... and displays unusual actions. In doing so, they moved further away from their goals, leading to the failure of their efforts. Homer Simpson eventually finds himself in an unstable mental state and appears to become a lifeless figure. Faye Greener becomes widely known for her sexual appearance and intimacy, attracting lust rather than her acting skills. In general, many citizens of Hollywood find themselves in similar situations. The end of the novel depicts a gathering of people disappointed in their own interests. They are waiting to see the actors of a recent film. They look to actors, their source of inspiration, to fill their need for excitement since they can no longer create the excitement themselves. The slightest tension triggers the crowd, frustrated and dissatisfied with the way their lives have become, and chaos arises...