The theme of emptiness and superficiality of modern life in three disparate works of literature: the poem "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot, the film "American Beauty" directed by Sam Mendes, and the song "Fake Plastic Trees" by Radiohead.

In "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," T. S. Eliot reveals the silent insecurity of a man, for whom the passing of time indicates the loss of virility and confidence. Throughout the poem, Prufrock struggles with his fear of inadequacy, which surfaces socially, physically and romantically.

In his poem "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," T.S. Eliot explores the idea that the human condition is a yearning for fulfillment in terms of satisfying human needs (emotional, physical, spiritual) through imagery and Prufrock's dramatic monologue. Prufrock desperately needs both social acceptance and romantic love to add some kind of meaning or happiness to his shallow, empty world.

T.S. Eliot's poem "Hysteria" loosely examines the seductive quality of hysteria, through the speaker's descriptions and reactions to a woman companion's laughter. Eliot's famed command of imagery and skillful use of language, along with his use of a level of abstractness, make this poem a work of art.