The Great Gatsby and The Americn Dream
What Gatsby Has
Extreme wealth and splendor
East Egg, new money.
Extrvagant parties
Air of mystery
Unclear how he attained his wealth.
All speculation
Drive to succeed
What Gatsby Doesn't Have
Meaningful connection with others
Nick is his only friend. He has surface level conversations and communiction.
Daisy's love
Her love represents ultimate success.
Tom's classic American attributes
His mere presence was threatening
Command attention
Old Money and familial heritage
What Gatsby Wants
To be loved and respected
Daisy as the perfect symbol of happiness
Does he Succeed?
Yes: he sacrifiecs himself out of love
No: he never will have meaningful connections
Those that attended his parties were selfish.
Only one attended his funeral.
Daisy will never love him, she is selfish
She betrays him, leading to his death
Is it Attainable?
Yes: the things that comprise the American Dream are tangible
House, boat, parties, wealth, mystery
No: he will always want more. He can never reach a goal that is not clear. There will always he another boat to buy or a latest car to buy.
The acqusition of wealth is endless.