In "Lonesome Dove" by Larry McMurtry, the character Jake is depicted as someone who navigates life largely through his dreams and aspirations rather than through concrete actions or responsibilities. His laid-back attitude and tendency to drift through life allow him to experience various adventures, although it also suggests a lack of ambition. This approach to life highlights a certain charm and carefree nature that defines his character.

Ultimately, Jake's ability to get by with this dream-like existence points towards a deeper commentary on the nature of fulfillment and the American frontier. While he seems to embrace life without seriousness, it raises questions about the consequences of living in a fantasy versus facing reality. McMurtry uses Jake's character to explore themes of adventure, freedom, and the complexities of human desires in the context of the vast, untamed landscape of the West.