The Great Gatsby Journal

The Great Gatsby

Summary of Chapter 1:
The narrator, Nick Carraway, introduces himself and provides
background on his life and family. He moves to the East to become a
bond trader and rents a house in West Egg. His neighbor is the
mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose lavish parties and lifestyle
intrigue Nick. Nick also describes his cousin Daisy and her husband
Tom Buchanan. They live across the bay in the more fashionable East
Egg. The chapter sets up the central relationships and tensions that
will drive the plot.

Character Focus: Jay Gatsby

Quote: "Gatsby, who represented everything for which I have an
unaffected scorn."
Gatsby's Qualities:
- Mysterious figure
- Lavish lifestyle with extravagant parties and possessions
- Appears to be hiding something about his past

Role in the Novel:

Gatsby is the central figure in the novel, and his relationship with Daisy
is the driving force of the plot. His backstory and the secrets of his past
are slowly revealed over the course of the novel, as Nick tries to unravel
the mystery of who Gatsby really is. Gatsby's pursuit of the American
Dream and his doomed attempt to recapture the past with Daisy are at
the heart of the novel's themes.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 2 Summary:
The narrator, Nick Carraway, describes his visit to New York City with
Tom Buchanan and Jordan Baker. They meet up with Tom's mistress,
Myrtle Wilson, and a group of her friends at an apartment in the city.
The group drinks heavily and tensions rise, leading to Tom violently
striking Myrtle, breaking her nose. The chapter provides insight into the
morally bankrupt world of the wealthy elite that Gatsby is trying to be a
part of.

Character Focus: Myrtle Wilson

Quote: "Oh, she's all right now. When she's had five or six cocktails she
always starts screaming like that. I tell her she ought to leave it alone."
Myrtle's Qualities:
- Vulgar
- Desperate to be part of the upper class
- Willing to engage in an affair with a married man

Role in the Novel:

Myrtle represents the moral decay and empty materialism of the
wealthy class that Gatsby is trying to infiltrate. Her affair with Tom
Buchanan highlights the hypocrisy and lack of ethics among the elite.
Myrtle's tragic end foreshadows the downfall that awaits those who
become entangled in the corrupted world of the rich.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 3 Summary:
In Chapter 3 of "The Great Gatsby," Nick Carraway finds himself
immersed in the luxurious world of Jay Gatsby's extravagant parties,
where the rich and famous gather to revel in luxury and excess. Amidst
the glitz and glamour, Nick grapples with conflicting emotions as he
observes the ostentatious displays of wealth and indulgence. He is
simultaneously enchanted by the allure of the lavish lifestyle and
repelled by its shallow superficiality. Throughout the chapter, Nick
serves as both a participant and an observer, providing readers with
keen insights into the characters and their motivations. As he navigates
the extravagant soirées, Nick's reflections on the enigmatic persona of
Gatsby and the emptiness of the elite social circles underscore the
novel's themes of disillusionment and the pursuit of the American
Dream.

Character Focus: Nick Carraway

Quote: "I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and
repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life."
Nick's best qualities include his honesty, as he often provides insightful
commentary on the characters and events around him, and his
perceptiveness, allows him to see through the facades of those he
encounters. Additionally, his moral integrity shines through as he
navigates the morally ambiguous world of the East and West Egg.

Role in the Novel :

In the novel, Nick serves as the moral compass and narrator, offering
readers a window into the lives of the characters while providing his
own commentary on their actions and motivations. His role as an
outsider looking in allows readers to see the extravagance and moral
decay of the Roaring Twenties through a critical lens. As the story
unfolds, Nick becomes increasingly intertwined with Gatsby's world,
ultimately playing a pivotal role in the tragic events that unfold.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 4 Summary:
In Chapter 4 of "The Great Gatsby," Jay Gatsby becomes the focal point
as he shares his past with Nick Carraway, providing glimpses into his
intricate and mysterious background. Gatsby's narrative unfolds like a
puzzling story, leaving both Nick and readers curious and absorbed by
the mystery surrounding him. Through his storytelling, Gatsby offers a
glimpse into his inner self, uncovering not just his ambitious dreams
but also the vulnerabilities and doubts hidden beneath his confident
exterior. Despite his charismatic image, Gatsby reveals himself as a
deeply human figure, grappling with his past and the relentless pursuit
of a lost love. Through his conversations with Nick and his elaborate
tales, Gatsby symbolizes the elusive American Dream, embodying both
its allure and its ultimate disillusionment.

Character Focus: Jay Gatsby

Quote: "I am the son of some wealthy people in the Middle West — all
dead now."
Gatsby's best qualities include his charm, as he captivates those
around him with his charisma, and his ambition, as he relentlessly
pursues his dreams despite obstacles.

Role in the Novel:

In the novel, Gatsby serves as a symbol of the American Dream. His
extravagant parties and mysterious aura fascinate those around him.
Yet his true motives remain shrouded in secrecy. As the story unfolds,
Gatsby's quest for love and acceptance drives the narrative forward,
ultimately leading to tragic consequences for himself and those
around him.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 5 Summary:
In Chapter 5 of "The Great Gatsby," the focus turns to Daisy Buchanan,
a significant moment as she reunites with Jay Gatsby after five years
apart. Acting as a mediator, Nick Carraway orchestrates the highly
anticipated meeting between the two. Daisy's reaction to Gatsby's
opulent home and his impressive shirt collection reveals a mix of
fascination, nostalgia, and sadness. This chapter highlights Daisy's
desire for a life characterized by authentic love and beauty,
contrasting starkly with her current circumstances. Through Daisy's
emotions and desires, the novel delves into themes of longing,
disillusionment, and the pursuit of genuine happiness.

Character Focus: Daisy

Quote: "It makes me sad because I've never seen such—such beautiful
shirts before."
Daisy's best qualities, as mentioned so far, include her charm and
captivating beauty, which have a profound effect on those around her.
Additionally, her emotional vulnerability is apparent, as she navigates
the conflicting desires of her heart. Her grace and elegance are
constantly highlighted, making her a symbol of the American
aristocracy.

Role in Novel:
In the novel, Daisy represents the ideal that Gatsby strives to attain,
symbolizing both his dreams and the materialism of the 1920s. She is
the primary motivation behind Gatsby's actions, driving the plot
forward with her presence. Daisy’s interactions with Gatsby reveal the
complexities of love and the impact of time on relationships. Her role
also underscores the theme of unattainable dreams, as Gatsby's
idealization of her does not align with reality. Ultimately, Daisy's choices
have significant repercussions, leading to the novel’s tragic conclusion.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 6 Summary:
In Chapter 6 of "The Great Gatsby," the focus shifts to Tom Buchanan,
Daisy’s husband, whose suspicions about Gatsby's intentions intensify.
As Gatsby's past comes to light through a reporter's visit and Nick's
narration, Tom becomes increasingly wary of Gatsby's mysterious
wealth and his growing closeness with Daisy. This chapter also reveals
Tom's resolve to unearth Gatsby’s true identity and motivations, driven
by his jealousy and desire to protect his social standing.

Character Focus: Tom Buchanan

Quote: I’d like to know who he is and what he does... And I think I’ll make
a point of finding out."
Tom's best qualities mentioned so far include his assertiveness and
determination, though these traits often manifest in a negative,
overbearing manner

Role in Novel:
Tom Buchanan plays a pivotal role in the novel as a symbol of the
established wealthy class, contrasting with Gatsby’s newfound riches.
His presence adds tension to the story, especially in his confrontations
with Gatsby and Daisy. Tom’s relentless quest to uncover Gatsby's
background exposes the societal divisions and ethical decline of the
time. His complicated relationships, including his affair, highlight
themes of betrayal and double standards. Ultimately, Tom’s decisions
and mindset shape the narrative trajectory and play a key part in the
unfolding drama of the story. Through Tom, Fitzgerald explores the
complexities of wealth, morality, and the pursuit of happiness in the
Jazz Age.
The Great Gatsby

Chapter 7 Summary:
In Chapter 7 of "The Great Gatsby," the spotlight falls on Daisy
Buchanan, whose emotional turmoil and choices drive the narrative
forward. This chapter reaches a climax as tensions reach a boiling
point during a heated confrontation between Gatsby and Tom
Buchanan at the Plaza Hotel. The oppressive heat of the day mirrors
the escalating tensions among the characters, heightening the
dramatic intensity of the scene. Daisy finds herself torn between her
affection for Gatsby and the security of her life with Tom, resulting in a
profoundly charged exchange. Throughout the chapter, Daisy's
vulnerability and uncertainty are palpable as she struggles to maintain
a façade of composure amidst the mounting pressure. As the
confrontation intensifies, Daisy's inner fears and insecurities are laid
bare, revealing the complex layers of her character. Despite her
moments of fragility, Daisy displays flashes of resilience, particularly
when she momentarily asserts herself against Tom, showcasing the
multifaceted nature of her persona. Through Daisy's emotional journey,
the author delves into themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of
human relationships.

Character Focus: Daisy

Quote: "Oh, you want too much!" she cried to Gatsby. "I love you now—
isn't that enough? I can't help what's past."
Daisy’s best qualities include her emotional depth and sensitivity, which
make her a complex and relatable character. She is perceptive and
aware of the consequences of her actions, although often paralyzed by
fear and societal expectations.
Role in Novel:
Daisy Buchanan's significance in the novel cannot be overstated, as
she serves as the focal point of Gatsby’s idealized affection and the
catalyst for the tragic events that unfold. Through her decisions and
actions, Fitzgerald explores the intricate dynamics of love, loyalty, and
societal expectations. Daisy’s reunion with Gatsby reignites their past
romance, yet it also lays bare the underlying tensions within her
marriage to Tom, exposing the complexities of her emotional
landscape. Her struggle to definitively choose between Gatsby and Tom
illuminates her inner turmoil and the external pressures she faces from
her social milieu. Ultimately, Daisy emerges as a poignant embodiment
of shattered dreams and the fleeting pursuit of happiness, propelling
the novel toward its poignant denouement. Through Daisy's character
arc, the author masterfully navigates themes of longing,
disillusionment, and the relentless pursuit of the unattainable.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 8 Summary:
In Chapter 8 of "The Great Gatsby," the narrative turns to George
Wilson, a figure whose profound desperation and anguish propel the
unfolding tragedy. Wilson, a humble proprietor of a dilapidated garage
in the desolate Valley of Ashes, symbolizes the plight of the working
class amidst the opulence and moral decay of the upper echelons of
society. Despite his modest means, Wilson is portrayed as industrious
and morally upright, deeply committed to his wife Myrtle, who is
entangled in an affair with Tom Buchanan. Through Wilson's character,
Fitzgerald underscores the stark comparison between the striving
working class and the privileged elite, highlighting the inherent
injustices and disparities of the era. Wilson's relentless pursuit of the
truth about Myrtle's affair serves as a catalyst for the tragic events that
ensue, ultimately leading to profound repercussions for all involved.
Through Wilson's narrative arc, Fitzgerald provides poignant
commentary on the corrosive effects of societal inequality and the
devastating consequences of unfulfilled aspirations.

Character Focus: George Wilson

Quote: “God sees everything,"
Throughout the novel, Wilson is depicted as a diligent yet struggling
man, running a failing garage and trying to make ends meet. His moral
compass is strong, which becomes evident when he grapples with
Myrtle's death, seeking justice in a world that seems indifferent to his
suffering. Wilson’s grief and sense of betrayal push him to the edge,
transforming his sorrow into a misguided quest for vengeance.

Role in Novel:
Wilson's role in the novel is pivotal, particularly in this chapter. He
represents the impact of the upper class's carelessness on the lives of
the less privileged. His actions lead directly to the climax of the story,
as his grief-stricken quest for justice results in Gatsby's tragic death.
Wilson embodies the themes of despair and the destructive
consequences of infidelity and deceit. Through his character,
Fitzgerald critiques the moral decay hidden beneath the facade of
wealth and glamour.

The Great Gatsby

Chapter 9 Summary:
In Chapter 9 of "The Great Gatsby," the enigmatic presence of Mr.
Wolfsheim, a shadowy figure from the underworld and a close associate
of Jay Gatsby, emerges as a pivotal element in the narrative. Despite
his sporadic appearances in the novel, Wolfsheim's aura of influence
and connections loom large over Gatsby's world, offering a tantalizing
glimpse into the murky depths beneath the facade of wealth and
opulence. His portrayal enriches the story, providing insight into the
clandestine machinations that sustain Gatsby's extravagant lifestyle
and the questionable origins of his fortune. While Wolfsheim remains
shrouded in mystery, his affiliation with Gatsby serves as a testament to
the lengths Gatsby was willing to traverse in pursuit of his dreams, even
if it meant treading the morally ambiguous paths of organized crime.
Through Wolfsheim's enigmatic persona, the author delves into themes
of loyalty, ambition, and the pursuit of the elusive American Dream,
painting a nuanced portrait of human nature and the allure of
forbidden avenues to success.

Character Focus: Mr. Wolfsheim

Quote: "Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive
and not after he is dead."
Wolfsheim's best qualities include his loyalty to Gatsby and his shrewd
business acumen, which have earned him a reputation as a formidable
figure in organized crime circles. He is described as a man of few words
but immense influence, with connections that extend far beyond the
confines of New York City. Wolfsheim's role in the novel is primarily as a
symbol of the corruption and moral decay that permeate the world of
the wealthy elite. His association with Gatsby underscores the lengths
to which Gatsby was willing to go to achieve his dreams, even if it meant
compromising his integrity.

Role in Novel:
Through Wolfsheim's character, Fitzgerald explores themes of loyalty,
ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Despite his dubious
reputation, Wolfsheim serves as a reminder of the moral ambiguity of
the characters in the novel and the society they inhabit. His brief
appearances in Chapter 9 offer insight into the shadowy underworld
that operates beneath the glamorous facade of the Jazz Age, adding
depth to the novel's exploration of wealth, power, and the human
condition.

The Great Gatsby

1. Quote 1:
"So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into
the past." - Nick Carraway

Explanation:
This poignant closing line encapsulates the novel's central theme of
the relentless pursuit of the American Dream and the elusive nature of
happiness. The metaphor of "boats against the current" vividly
illustrates the struggle against the inexorable passage of time and the
caprices of fate. Fitzgerald's choice of the word "borne" underscores the
weight of personal history and the futility of evading one's past.
Personally, this quote strikes a chord as a poignant reminder of
humanity's tendency to pursue aspirations and ideals, notwithstanding
the obstacles and setbacks we confront. It serves as a poignant
contemplation on the rhythms of existence and the enduring human
quest for significance and contentment.

2. Quote 2:
"Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgiastic future that year by
year recedes before us." - Nick Carraway

Explanation:
 This quote encapsulates the essence of Gatsby's character and his
steadfast belief in the potential for self-reinvention and transcending
one's past. The green light symbolizes both Gatsby's aspirations and
the ethereal quality of his dreams, perpetually just beyond his grasp
yet compelling him to chase them tirelessly. Fitzgerald's choice of the
word "orgiastic" evokes the intensity of Gatsby's vision, hinting at the
excesses and illusions of the Jazz Age. Personally, this quote resonates
as a poignant reminder of the power of hope and ambition, alongside
the inherent limitations and disillusionments inherent in pursuing an
idealized future. It underscores the human capacity for resilience and
the complex, often conflicting impulses that propel us forward in our
journey through life.