What Is Modernism In The Great Gatsby

The rise of Modernism in 1920s differentiated two different standards of upper classes. While the “Old money” inherited wealth from their predecessors, the “New money” prospered through hard works and the perception of the American Dream. Many American authors are significant for distinguishing the deformity of society that Modernism has created, which in many ways still exists in the present day. One of the most important literary works that clearly depicts the American society based on the Modernism movement is “The Great Gatsby”. The novel demonstrates the conception of how people are willing to go any length in order to reach the perfect and luxurious life, also known as the American Dream. Therefore, the most relevant American author of
According to “The Big Banks are Corrupt-and getting worse”, written by Richard Eskow, the major-league banks have been financially gaining through violation of laws and unethical practices. In the article, he informs the readers that leading banks, such as J.P. Morgan Chase, are risking thousands of Americans out of jobs and money. Despite such illegitimate behavior, this criminal activity is not affecting their reputation. Even the bankers, who work in the bank, are actively engaged for their own individual gain, yet these individuals are not being charged against their crimes. Eskow disputes, “In fact, bankers’ bonuses do incentivize unethical and criminal behavior – and anything else it takes to generate profits. ‘Clawbacks’ for ill-gotten gains are still few and far between. Remarkably few bankers have been fired for the widespread fraud that continues to characterize their industry. Prosecution for criminal behavior is extremely rare. A system that rewards antisocial behavior begets social tragedy” (Eskow par 20). Fitzgerald’s prediction about the deceptive nature of “Old money” is appropriate in this situation because it sheds insight on the crime of “The 1%” in modern society. In the novel, he describes how the rich will escape their felony through the power of money. In the 21th century, many banks prosper with the civilians’ money, but most of these banks will escape with money when they lose people’s deposit. J.P. Morgan Chase is a prime example of how “Old money” prevents charges and consequences by bribery and settling with money. This issue is also relevant to Fitzgerald’s foreshowing on how American society works. While the wealthy class commits crimes and withdrawal, the innocent minors have to face consequences. Just as Gatsby face inevitable death due to Daisy’s absurdity, the working class in modern America loses saving money and jobs due to