West Egg In The Great Gatsby

In many novels, two opposing places create the story. In the case of The Great Gatsby by: F. Scott Fitzgerald, two opposing neighborhoods, East Egg and West Egg serve to contrast each other. East Egg being the “old rich” meaning families that come from money and West Egg being the “new rich” meaning families that are first generation wealthy. The contrast of the two areas contributes to the meaning of the work as a whole to show the difference in lifestyle within the upper class and specifically between Gatsby and the Buchanan family. Gatsby’s “coming up” was always questionable throughout the story with various rumors being spread about it. Having Gatsby live in West Egg serves to show a part of the real story in Gatsby not coming from money, living in the “new rich” neighborhood. Fitzgerald portrays West Egg as being gaudy and ostentatious. This is further shown by Gatsby’s parties, unnecessarily large and showy. Fitzgerald goes on to contrast the two showing that East Egg is not as irresponsible as West Egg with their money but don’t be confused because people in East Egg aren’t any better than
When it comes to West Egg, they are seen as conspicuous consumers, buying things and throwing parties not for themselves but to show others their wealth. Gatsby completely fits this mold with his parties. He barely attends his parties showing that they are not for his satisfaction but moreover for showing off. Residents of East Egg may not be conspicuous consumers but they can be much worse. These are dishonest and selfish people. East Egg is never satisfied with their copious amounts of money. Contrasting these two neighborhoods in The Great Gatsby contributed to the overall meaning of the work by criticizing the rich and showing the difference even between just one social