As a younger person in a less than ideal geographic area of the United States, I do not have much exposure to what I consider real American culture. I read about certain things that I like and whatnot, but cannot put together what it really means socially to be an American in the classic way that it was like perhaps in the 1950's. I'd like to read classic American books and watch all the "must see" classic pre-commification movies.
Does anyone have any recommendations for perhaps a list of books and movies or some insight on what it's like culturally in places that are more "real America"?
Eventually I think my goal is to move to one of these places and start a new life. Are there really towns and cities where most people are friendly and all love America? Most of the people where I live who want to live a decent social life move to NYC and well we all know what that's about but what about something like Nashville or Oklahoma City? I know rural areas are good but are they good for younger people who didn't grow up there?
The Rifleman is a pretty good showcase of real American values, it's free on Pluto if you don't mind commercials. And for what it's worth, the old Addams Family TV show has absolutely 100% the best portrayal of a marriage I've ever seen on TV (also free on Pluto). Every other couple I've ever seen portrayed on TV is just... wrong. Nowadays they show the husbands to be complete doormats. Edit: for art, look at Hudson River School, and for music, check out 18th Century American Overture and 18th Century Hunting music: https://www.discogs.com/Hewitt-Carr-Reinagle-Sinfonia-Finlandia-Jyv%C3%A4skyl%C3%A4-Patrick-Gallois-The-18th-Century-American-Overtu/release/2818206 https://www.discogs.com/Collegium-Musicum-Of-Prague-18th-Century-Hunting-Music/release/2168723
Another edit: if someone were to ask me what it means to be an American, I would say: Americans value their time because here in America, time equals money. We like people to not be late for things. And we see everyone as equals. We don't bow to others in greeting and we don't give people special treatment , in general you are no better than anyone else, and it's in bad taste to talk about how much money you have. And we value our freedom... To be an American means to give up guaranteed comfort for the freedom to do whatever you want with your life. You can come here owning NOTHING and do great things with your life as you choose, if you really want it. People come here for a reason.