In his book, William S. Burroughs explores the diverse nature of American identity, highlighting the vast array of social and professional backgrounds that exist within the country. From sharecroppers to atomic physicists, he emphasizes that there is no singular way of thinking among Americans. This lack of uniformity leads to a rich but fragmented national character.

Burroughs suggests that this diversity means Americans may have less in common than people from other nations. He challenges the notion of a cohesive American identity, arguing that the multitude of experiences and viewpoints creates a complex society with varied perspectives and little consensus.