Great Gatsby
...This is what many Americans, past and present, have done in order to achieve the American dream; wealth, liberty, and happiness. In F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, Jay Gatsby symbolizes the American dream.
One could look at Gatsby's past and it can be seen that he is destined to get ahead in life. Mr. Gatz told Nick, "Jimmy was bound to get ahead. He always had some resolves like this or something. Do you notice what he's got about improving his mind? He was always great for that. He told me I et like a hog once and I beat him for it" (182). Gatsby's determination to gain a large bankroll is a huge part of the American dream. He believes that once he achieves his financial goal it will lead to a better life. He wants to rid himself of his social barriers and move into the financial and social league of Daisy and others like her
In America the car is one of the greatest status symbols. Gatsby's gorgeous machine is one of the most majestic cars created. Nick's comments on the vehicle describe its luster, "...and there in its monstrous length with triumphant hatboxes and supper-boxes and tool-boxes...Sitting down behind many layers of glass in a sort of leather conservatory we started towards town" (68). The use of the symbolic automobile can be seen as a demonstration of how an ideal based on materialism alone can be destructive
Appearance is another factor that Gatsby believes will help him reach the American dream. In his quest to win Daisy's heart Gatsby chooses to wear his best outfit, "a white flannel suit, silver shirt and gold colored tie hurried in" (89). Silver and gold are the colors of wealth; Gatsby's garments are as lavish as any of the other items he owns. Gatsby's shirts are more then just garments to Gatsby. They are some of the many fascinating objects he possesses that were created by money. These shirts contribute towards...
View Full Essay
