Even with immense wealth, Gatsby’s life is haunted by a lack of meaningful relationships along with a distorted view of Daisy and the rest of the world; these weaknesses make him a fragmented character, acting as an example of the disillusionment of many people aiming for the American Dream
Quote 1: “...the city rising up across the river in white heaps and sugar lumps all built with a wish out of non-olfactory money. The city seen from the Queensboro Bridge is always the city seen for the first time, in its first wild promise of all the mystery and the beauty in the world” (Fitzgerald 68).
Analysis: Nick’s description of how the city first appears upon entering is an accurate portrayal of how Gatsby perceives the world and the American dream. The city is a place promising opportunity and success, and that same idea is the foundation for how Gatsby approaches life. He wants prosperity and wealth and Daisy, and his enthusiasm to have these in his life barely staggers. In my painting, a city skyline as Gatsby’s crown represents how the attitude he has towards his goals is ambitious and confident, the typical city mindset. …show more content…
Gatsby’s party coming to an end reveals his latent loneliness; he has a marvelous house and plenty of money, but once the party is over he can no longer hide how emotionally detached he is. Gatsby being surrounded by grey in my painting shows how even though he keeps himself surrounded by interesting people and expensive possessions, Gatsby is truly isolated from others. His life is lonesome and empty, and the luxury that he lives in can only temporarily ease that pain. This is a prime example of how working hard and getting rich do not necessarily lead to happiness and life satisfaction, and that the American dream is not all that it is made out to