Blackjack is frequently depicted in popular media and literature as a representation of chance, strategy, and the excitement of gambling. Movies like "21" and "Casino" illustrate the thrill of high-stakes play and the psychology of card counting, while Edward O. Thorp's book "Beat the Dealer" delves into the strategies of the game, emphasizing the intellectual competition between players and the house. These narratives often focus on themes of risk, temptation, and the pursuit of wealth, highlighting the inherent tension and excitement of blackjack.