What Does Spring Symbolize In The Great Gatsby

One recurring motif I noticed in this novel was the role nature played on the plot line of the story. When I think of nature in this book, I think of the changing seasons that occurred throughout the story.
In the beginning of this story, it is revealed that Nick first arrived in New York in the spring of 1922 and became Gatsby’s neighbour. To me, spring symbolizes the first stage in the cycle of life. This is because, during this time, new life such as flowers and trees begin to bloom. Spring essentially symbolizes a fresh start and hopeful atmosphere. This season coincides with the fresh start Nick was looking for when he decided to move east and learn the bond business after fighting in the war. Spring also reflects the hopefulness Gatsby had for the future in which he wants to rekindle his relationship with Daisy.
As spring gradually turns into summer, life seems to be in full swing in the novel. In my opinion, summer symbolises abundant vitality which can be seen through the description Nick gives to Myrtle Wilson. “She was in the middle thirties, and faintly stout… but there was an immediately perceptible vitality about her as if the nerves of her body were continually smouldering.” (Chapter 2) During the summer months, romance and passion also seem to
It represents the roaring twenties, where people lived lavishly and had no care for the consequence of their actions. Autumn represents the Great Depression, the end result of the American dream to me. This is because the date the Great Depression started was October 29, 1929 (a fall month) and also because it’s when the hopes and dreams of the main characters in the book came to an end. Gatsby’s dream to be with Daisy ended and the consequence of him dealing in illegal business also