Ch.8 98-109
Nick goes to visit Gatsby who tells him tat he waited for daisy until 4 in the morning yet nothing happened. Gatsby tells Nick about his love affair with Daisy in Louisville and describes how close he was with her. He tells Nick that she had promised to wait to marry him but she has married Tom because she was impatient. Nick goes to work but is distracted and does not even want to meet Jordan. The story then goes to Michaelis who has stayed with Wilson all night. They discuss George and Myrtle's relationship as Wilson promises to kill the person that killed Myrtle. Wilson finds out that the car belongs to Gatsby and goes to his house while Gatsby is laying in his pool and shoots him and then shoots himself. Nick finds Gatsby dead in his pool and reflects on the emptiness of Gatsby's life without Daisy.
a. Nick Carraway
b. " I tossed half-sick between grotesque reality and savage, frightening dreams." (p.98)
C.
Fair- Reserves all judgement on others.
Curious- He is curious and almost obsessed about Gatsby and his life style.
Reflective. Nick constantly reflects on his experiences and those of his peers.
Open- Other people are attracted to him and frequently talk to him about personal issues.
Quiet- Nick is not obnoxiously loud nor does he speak out of place during the novel. Nick speaks when spoken to and when it is necessary for him.
Nick is the narrator of the novel. It is through Nick's eyes that we see the characters and the plot in the novel. The fact that Nick's thoughts and emotions are the only one's that the reader can distinguish causes Nick to play an important role in the novel. Furthermore, Nick is a direct reflection of Fitzgerald's image. Gatsby is Fitzgerald's flashy extravagant side, however Nick reflects Fitzgerald's more subdued and humble side. Nick's close representation of Fitzgerald allows Fitzgerald to speak through Nick and through Nick's reflections Fitzgerald is able to make correlations to major themes in the novel.
"If that was true he must have felt that he had lost the old warm world paid a high price for living too long with a single dream."
This quote describes how Gatsby payed the price for his desire to live out his dream to once again be in a loving relationship with Daisy. This quote marks the consequences for Gatsby's dream and show that he has lost his battle to be with Daisy. Furthermore, this quote touches on a major theme in the novel, dreams vs reality. Through this quote one can recognize that Gatsby was not able to reach his dream and direly payed the consequences for having such hopes. FItzgerald wants the reader to recognize the risks of dreams and how they do not always morph into reality. Gatsby's death is a prime example of how high hopes and dreams that are held unto for to long can lead to the demise of an individual.
Friday, February 18, 2011
ch. 9
Ch 9 109-121
Nick describes the loads of attention in the media that Gatsby's death received. Gatsby decides to hold a large scale funeral for Gatsby but realizes that many of his friends have disappeared or moved away. Nick finds out that Tom and Daisy have moved and he is unable to reach them. Mr. Gatz arrives to attend his son's funeral along with Owl Eyes, Nick, and some servants. Mr. Gatz talks about Gatsby's early life while showing him a book that contained a schedule Gatsby had made. Nick decides to move back to the Midwest while in the process breaking up with Jordan. One day Nick sees Tom in New York, who tells him that it was him who told Wilson that it was Gatsby's car and that he deserved to die. Nick reflects on life in the east and its hardships for westerners. On his last nigh Nick goes to Gatsby's house and reflects on the struggles that people endure to reach their dreams.
a. Mr. Gatz
b. "He had reached an age where death no longer has the quality of ghostly surprise and when he looked around him now for the first time and saw the height and splendor of the half and great rooms opening out from it into the other rooms, his grief began to be mixed with an awed sense of pride."
c.
Frail- " He was on the point of collapse"
Sad- "A solemn old man"
Proud- Carried around a picture of James' house, had pride for his son's success.
Appreciative- " ever since he made a success he was very generous with me."
d. Mr. Gatz represents the real Jay Gatsby. He is a living fragment of Gatsby's authentic life and represents reality. Gatz's role in the story is to represent the real Gatsby and to contrast the illusion. He is the only person i the novel who exemplifies a part of the roots Gatsby so desperately yearned to break from. Furthermore, his role in the novel is of one of the few characters wo truly care for Gatsby. Besides Nick Mr. Gatz loves his son not for his material wealth and the illusion he has created but for who he is as an authentic person. Mr. Gatz also represents America's lower class and how unlike the rich they do not only appreciate material wealth. Unlike the rich the poor as represented by Mr. Gatz care about people even after their wealth is dead.
"They were careless people, Tom and Daisy- They smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made."
This quote represents the major theme of American wealth that the novel presents. In the novel Tom and Daisy represent the American wealthy class of the early 1900's. With this is mind this quote sums up Fitzgerald's opinion concerning America's wealthiest. This quote portrays a key message that attacks the wealthy and brings to light their selfish tendencies. This quote is significant because it summarizes a key message of the novel which is the exploitation of lower classes by America's wealthy people.
Nick describes the loads of attention in the media that Gatsby's death received. Gatsby decides to hold a large scale funeral for Gatsby but realizes that many of his friends have disappeared or moved away. Nick finds out that Tom and Daisy have moved and he is unable to reach them. Mr. Gatz arrives to attend his son's funeral along with Owl Eyes, Nick, and some servants. Mr. Gatz talks about Gatsby's early life while showing him a book that contained a schedule Gatsby had made. Nick decides to move back to the Midwest while in the process breaking up with Jordan. One day Nick sees Tom in New York, who tells him that it was him who told Wilson that it was Gatsby's car and that he deserved to die. Nick reflects on life in the east and its hardships for westerners. On his last nigh Nick goes to Gatsby's house and reflects on the struggles that people endure to reach their dreams.
a. Mr. Gatz
b. "He had reached an age where death no longer has the quality of ghostly surprise and when he looked around him now for the first time and saw the height and splendor of the half and great rooms opening out from it into the other rooms, his grief began to be mixed with an awed sense of pride."
c.
Frail- " He was on the point of collapse"
Sad- "A solemn old man"
Proud- Carried around a picture of James' house, had pride for his son's success.
Appreciative- " ever since he made a success he was very generous with me."
d. Mr. Gatz represents the real Jay Gatsby. He is a living fragment of Gatsby's authentic life and represents reality. Gatz's role in the story is to represent the real Gatsby and to contrast the illusion. He is the only person i the novel who exemplifies a part of the roots Gatsby so desperately yearned to break from. Furthermore, his role in the novel is of one of the few characters wo truly care for Gatsby. Besides Nick Mr. Gatz loves his son not for his material wealth and the illusion he has created but for who he is as an authentic person. Mr. Gatz also represents America's lower class and how unlike the rich they do not only appreciate material wealth. Unlike the rich the poor as represented by Mr. Gatz care about people even after their wealth is dead.
"They were careless people, Tom and Daisy- They smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made."
This quote represents the major theme of American wealth that the novel presents. In the novel Tom and Daisy represent the American wealthy class of the early 1900's. With this is mind this quote sums up Fitzgerald's opinion concerning America's wealthiest. This quote portrays a key message that attacks the wealthy and brings to light their selfish tendencies. This quote is significant because it summarizes a key message of the novel which is the exploitation of lower classes by America's wealthy people.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Gatsby Ch. 7
Ch. 7 75-98
Nick Begins the chapter by explaining that Gatsby has stopped throwing parties and has hired new servants recommended to him by Wolfsheim. On one hotter summer day Nick drives to Daisy's house for lunch and sees that Gatsby and Jordan are there as well. Gatsby meets Daisy's child and seems stunned that it truly exists. Throughout the day Gatsby and Daiys stare at each other which makes Tom suspicious. The five decide to go to New York city as Daisy and Gatsby drive Tom's care while Nick, Jordan, and Tom ride in Gatsby's. They stop at Wilson's garage for gas where they find out that WIlson is aware that his wife is having an affair and a jealous Myrtle sees Tom and thinks that Jordan is his wife. They arrive at the Plaza hotel where Tom and Gatsby argue about Daisy's love. Tom sends Daisy back to Long Island with Gatsby sensing that he has won the argument. Driving home Tom, Jordan, and Nick are forced to stop after they see and accident near Wilson's garage. They recognize that Myrtle is the victim and Nick realizes that the culprit may have been Daisy and Gatsby driving home. At Tom's house Nick finds Gatsby in the bushes and he tells Nick that it was Daisy who was driving and it was she who hit Myrtle. Nick goes in and checks on Tom and Daisy and finds that they have solved their differences.
a. Tom Buchanan
b. "I've heard of making a garage out of a stable, but I am the first man who ever made a stable out of a garage."
c.
Selfish: His mannerisms around Daisy. The fact that he can have an affair but it is awful if she does. The way he treats Mr. WIlson
Cocky: The way that he displays his house to Nick.
Paranoid: Preforming an investigation about Gatsby's past.
Racist: The book he talked about during their first dinner with Nick.
Upfront: He calls out Gatsby about his affair with Daisy to his face in front of everyone. Does not even bother to hide his affair from his wife and Jordan.
d. Tom's role in the story is to contrast Gatsby. Tom represents America's older aristocratic class and his personality is meant to contrast Gatsby's. The severe contrast between Gatsby and Tom escalate the fight between the two men when Tom calls out Gatsby concerning his affair with Daisy. It is clear that Tom posses the biggest threat to Daisy and Gatsby living happily ever after. He makes it clear that he will not be disgraced by their affair and it is because of his self centered cocky attitude that he aims to stop the affair to preserve his own name. Tom seems to be fighting more so for his name yet it is clear that he will not let Gatsby and Daisy be together without a fight. In this novel Tom is the antagonist whose mission is to stop Gatsby from reaching his dream. If Gatsby and Daisy are to be true lovers then they must get passed Tom who aims to stop their relationship
"I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife. Well if that's the idea count me out." (p.86)
This quote is significant because it is the beginning of the feud that irrupts between Gatsby and Tom. Up to this point Tom knew about the affair yet refused to bring it up however this is the first time in which he displays his knowledge of his wife's affair. Furthermore, this quote is significant because it commences the now bitter feud between Gatsby and Tom. In my opinion this quote marks the climax of the story. All the events prior have led to this event which marks the highest point of conflict in the story. The conflict and drama between Gatsby and Tom has reached its peak and this quote exemplifies that life on Long Island will not be the same.
Nick Begins the chapter by explaining that Gatsby has stopped throwing parties and has hired new servants recommended to him by Wolfsheim. On one hotter summer day Nick drives to Daisy's house for lunch and sees that Gatsby and Jordan are there as well. Gatsby meets Daisy's child and seems stunned that it truly exists. Throughout the day Gatsby and Daiys stare at each other which makes Tom suspicious. The five decide to go to New York city as Daisy and Gatsby drive Tom's care while Nick, Jordan, and Tom ride in Gatsby's. They stop at Wilson's garage for gas where they find out that WIlson is aware that his wife is having an affair and a jealous Myrtle sees Tom and thinks that Jordan is his wife. They arrive at the Plaza hotel where Tom and Gatsby argue about Daisy's love. Tom sends Daisy back to Long Island with Gatsby sensing that he has won the argument. Driving home Tom, Jordan, and Nick are forced to stop after they see and accident near Wilson's garage. They recognize that Myrtle is the victim and Nick realizes that the culprit may have been Daisy and Gatsby driving home. At Tom's house Nick finds Gatsby in the bushes and he tells Nick that it was Daisy who was driving and it was she who hit Myrtle. Nick goes in and checks on Tom and Daisy and finds that they have solved their differences.
a. Tom Buchanan
b. "I've heard of making a garage out of a stable, but I am the first man who ever made a stable out of a garage."
c.
Selfish: His mannerisms around Daisy. The fact that he can have an affair but it is awful if she does. The way he treats Mr. WIlson
Cocky: The way that he displays his house to Nick.
Paranoid: Preforming an investigation about Gatsby's past.
Racist: The book he talked about during their first dinner with Nick.
Upfront: He calls out Gatsby about his affair with Daisy to his face in front of everyone. Does not even bother to hide his affair from his wife and Jordan.
d. Tom's role in the story is to contrast Gatsby. Tom represents America's older aristocratic class and his personality is meant to contrast Gatsby's. The severe contrast between Gatsby and Tom escalate the fight between the two men when Tom calls out Gatsby concerning his affair with Daisy. It is clear that Tom posses the biggest threat to Daisy and Gatsby living happily ever after. He makes it clear that he will not be disgraced by their affair and it is because of his self centered cocky attitude that he aims to stop the affair to preserve his own name. Tom seems to be fighting more so for his name yet it is clear that he will not let Gatsby and Daisy be together without a fight. In this novel Tom is the antagonist whose mission is to stop Gatsby from reaching his dream. If Gatsby and Daisy are to be true lovers then they must get passed Tom who aims to stop their relationship
"I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife. Well if that's the idea count me out." (p.86)
This quote is significant because it is the beginning of the feud that irrupts between Gatsby and Tom. Up to this point Tom knew about the affair yet refused to bring it up however this is the first time in which he displays his knowledge of his wife's affair. Furthermore, this quote is significant because it commences the now bitter feud between Gatsby and Tom. In my opinion this quote marks the climax of the story. All the events prior have led to this event which marks the highest point of conflict in the story. The conflict and drama between Gatsby and Tom has reached its peak and this quote exemplifies that life on Long Island will not be the same.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Gatsby Ch. 6
Ch. 64-74
A reporter arrives at Gatsby’s door as Nick describes some of the rumors that have been circulating concerning Gatsby. Nick then delves into Gatsby’s real history telling us that his real name was James Gatz and was from North Dakota where he was born into poor farmers. Gatz went to St. Olaf’s in Minnesota but dropped out because he was embarrassed by the janitorial work he was forced to do. He began to fish on Lake Superior where one day he met Dan Cody who invited him on his yacht. There he changed his name to Jay Gatsby and sailed with Gatsby to the West Indies and Barbary Coast. Cody eventually left him 2500 dollars after his death but did not allow Gatsby to claim his inheritance which motivated him to become wealthy. One day after not having seen Daisy nor Gatsby for weeks Nick sees Tom, Daisy and the Sloans at Gatsby’s house. The next Saturday Gatsby throws a huge party however, Daisy who is in attendance is unhappy at. Nick tries to comfort Gatsby who is upset that Daisy had such a terrible time and begins to think of Gatsby and Daisy’s first kiss.
Daisy Buchanan
“I knew that except for the half-hour she’d been alone with Gatsby she wasn’t having a good time.” (p.70)
Angelic Beauty: Her physical descriptions are somewhat divine, and she is always wearing white.
Sarcastic: “He reads deep books with long words in them.” This remark among others when Nick is at her house for dinner shows her profound sarcasm.
Distrusting: The fact that she is carrying out an affair with Gatsby.
Unhappy: She does not seem to like her life at home. “Who’s Tom?”
Daisy means the world to Gatsby. Daisy truly dictates Gatsby’s every move and he has lived his life in the hope of someday being able to impress her. Daisy is so significant to the novel due to the fact that she is the wind behind Gatsby’s sails. Because the novel is centered on Gatsby’s life Daisy is so meaningful because she is the person that Gatsby has centered his life around. It is clear that without Daisy in his life Gatsby would be a drastically different man. The glamour and wealth that Nick constantly describes would not be inexistence without Daisy. If it wasn’t for Daisy Gatsby would not live the extravagant life which is one of the major themes and symbols of the novel.
“She was appalled by the West Egg, this unprecedented “place” that Broadway had begotten upon a Long Island fishing village. She saw something awful in the very simplicity she failed to understand.”(p.71)
This quote is so significant because it exemplifies the notion that Daisy and Gatsby’s fairy tale relationship may not work out. This quote shows that Daisy has problems with Gatsby’s life style and may not be able to live with him on West Egg. This is the first time in the novel is which a conflict between Gatsby and Daisy’s relationship arises. Through this quote it is evident that Daisy is unhappy in West Egg and may not be able to have as perfect of a relationship as Gatsby had imagined. This quote foreshadows later conflicts that may occur that could inevitably divide Gatsby and Daisy. The flaw that is evident from this quote could perhaps come between Gatsby and Daisy and cause Daisy to stay ignore Gatsby and stay with Tom.
A reporter arrives at Gatsby’s door as Nick describes some of the rumors that have been circulating concerning Gatsby. Nick then delves into Gatsby’s real history telling us that his real name was James Gatz and was from North Dakota where he was born into poor farmers. Gatz went to St. Olaf’s in Minnesota but dropped out because he was embarrassed by the janitorial work he was forced to do. He began to fish on Lake Superior where one day he met Dan Cody who invited him on his yacht. There he changed his name to Jay Gatsby and sailed with Gatsby to the West Indies and Barbary Coast. Cody eventually left him 2500 dollars after his death but did not allow Gatsby to claim his inheritance which motivated him to become wealthy. One day after not having seen Daisy nor Gatsby for weeks Nick sees Tom, Daisy and the Sloans at Gatsby’s house. The next Saturday Gatsby throws a huge party however, Daisy who is in attendance is unhappy at. Nick tries to comfort Gatsby who is upset that Daisy had such a terrible time and begins to think of Gatsby and Daisy’s first kiss.
Daisy Buchanan
“I knew that except for the half-hour she’d been alone with Gatsby she wasn’t having a good time.” (p.70)
Angelic Beauty: Her physical descriptions are somewhat divine, and she is always wearing white.
Sarcastic: “He reads deep books with long words in them.” This remark among others when Nick is at her house for dinner shows her profound sarcasm.
Distrusting: The fact that she is carrying out an affair with Gatsby.
Unhappy: She does not seem to like her life at home. “Who’s Tom?”
Daisy means the world to Gatsby. Daisy truly dictates Gatsby’s every move and he has lived his life in the hope of someday being able to impress her. Daisy is so significant to the novel due to the fact that she is the wind behind Gatsby’s sails. Because the novel is centered on Gatsby’s life Daisy is so meaningful because she is the person that Gatsby has centered his life around. It is clear that without Daisy in his life Gatsby would be a drastically different man. The glamour and wealth that Nick constantly describes would not be inexistence without Daisy. If it wasn’t for Daisy Gatsby would not live the extravagant life which is one of the major themes and symbols of the novel.
“She was appalled by the West Egg, this unprecedented “place” that Broadway had begotten upon a Long Island fishing village. She saw something awful in the very simplicity she failed to understand.”(p.71)
This quote is so significant because it exemplifies the notion that Daisy and Gatsby’s fairy tale relationship may not work out. This quote shows that Daisy has problems with Gatsby’s life style and may not be able to live with him on West Egg. This is the first time in the novel is which a conflict between Gatsby and Daisy’s relationship arises. Through this quote it is evident that Daisy is unhappy in West Egg and may not be able to have as perfect of a relationship as Gatsby had imagined. This quote foreshadows later conflicts that may occur that could inevitably divide Gatsby and Daisy. The flaw that is evident from this quote could perhaps come between Gatsby and Daisy and cause Daisy to stay ignore Gatsby and stay with Tom.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Gatsby Ch. 5
Ch. 5 p. 53-64
Nick returns home to find Gatsby’s house fully illuminated. Gatsby comes out to greet him and asks him to go to Coney Island. Nick declines but invites Gatsby to tea at his house with Daisy, which over joys Gatsby. On the day that they are supposed to meet it is raining. Gatsby arrives at Nick’s house and appears extremely nervous fearing that he may not be able to woo Daisy again. Daisy arrives but as Nick leads her into the house Gatsby has disappeared. Minutes later there is a knock on the door and Gatsby reappears. At first the meeting between Gatsby and Daisy is akward however, after Nick leaves them alone for 30 minutes they are both filled with happiness. Gatsby invites both Nick and Daisy to his house. They tour the house and Daisy begins to cry because of the overwhelming luxury. Immersed in love Gatsby and Daisy forget Nick is there so he leaves the two alone.
Jay Gatsby
Rich: Elaborate house, and belongings.
Shy: His actions when he first sees Daisy. Does not interact with any of his guests at his parties.
Liar: His stories about his past never correlate and many times lack the truth.
Obsessed: The fact that he bought his house to look at Daisy’s and remembers the exact date when they last met proves that he is indeed obsessed with her. “Consumed with wonder at her presence.”
Childish: His yearn to go to Coney Island with Nick, his actions when he first sees Daisy.
This novel is centered around Gatsby. Apart from a few small instances all of the dialogue and narration of the story center around or involve Gatsby. Nick’s interaction with Gatsby is the focal point of the novel. Every single one of Gatsby’s actions are woven into the plot. The key themes that the novel presents such as love, adultery, illusion vs. reality, and rich vs. poor all relate back to Gatsby. Although the reader knows the end of the story from the first chapter, it is clear that Gatsby still dictates every twist and turn that the novel presents.
“ I was in the drug business and then I was in the oil business. Do you mean you’ve been thinking over what I proposed to you the other night?”(p.60)
This quote sheds light on the mystery of how Gatsby was able to obtain his riches. This quote reveals that Gatsby’s estate may have been obtained through an illegal way. Furthermore, this quote shows Gatsby’s growing honestly towards Nick. Out of all of his self-descriptions of his past this own seems to hold the most truth. This quote further exemplifies the novel’s reoccurring theme of crime. Also it once again shows Gatsby’s darker side. Lastly, this quote shows Nick’s growing interest in the mysterious proposition Gatsby has presented to him. This quote foreshadows the possibility of Nick’s involvement in crime.
Nick returns home to find Gatsby’s house fully illuminated. Gatsby comes out to greet him and asks him to go to Coney Island. Nick declines but invites Gatsby to tea at his house with Daisy, which over joys Gatsby. On the day that they are supposed to meet it is raining. Gatsby arrives at Nick’s house and appears extremely nervous fearing that he may not be able to woo Daisy again. Daisy arrives but as Nick leads her into the house Gatsby has disappeared. Minutes later there is a knock on the door and Gatsby reappears. At first the meeting between Gatsby and Daisy is akward however, after Nick leaves them alone for 30 minutes they are both filled with happiness. Gatsby invites both Nick and Daisy to his house. They tour the house and Daisy begins to cry because of the overwhelming luxury. Immersed in love Gatsby and Daisy forget Nick is there so he leaves the two alone.
Jay Gatsby
Rich: Elaborate house, and belongings.
Shy: His actions when he first sees Daisy. Does not interact with any of his guests at his parties.
Liar: His stories about his past never correlate and many times lack the truth.
Obsessed: The fact that he bought his house to look at Daisy’s and remembers the exact date when they last met proves that he is indeed obsessed with her. “Consumed with wonder at her presence.”
Childish: His yearn to go to Coney Island with Nick, his actions when he first sees Daisy.
This novel is centered around Gatsby. Apart from a few small instances all of the dialogue and narration of the story center around or involve Gatsby. Nick’s interaction with Gatsby is the focal point of the novel. Every single one of Gatsby’s actions are woven into the plot. The key themes that the novel presents such as love, adultery, illusion vs. reality, and rich vs. poor all relate back to Gatsby. Although the reader knows the end of the story from the first chapter, it is clear that Gatsby still dictates every twist and turn that the novel presents.
“ I was in the drug business and then I was in the oil business. Do you mean you’ve been thinking over what I proposed to you the other night?”(p.60)
This quote sheds light on the mystery of how Gatsby was able to obtain his riches. This quote reveals that Gatsby’s estate may have been obtained through an illegal way. Furthermore, this quote shows Gatsby’s growing honestly towards Nick. Out of all of his self-descriptions of his past this own seems to hold the most truth. This quote further exemplifies the novel’s reoccurring theme of crime. Also it once again shows Gatsby’s darker side. Lastly, this quote shows Nick’s growing interest in the mysterious proposition Gatsby has presented to him. This quote foreshadows the possibility of Nick’s involvement in crime.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Gatsby Ch. 4
Ch. 4 61-80
Nick lists all of the people that he has seen attending Gatsby’s parties during the summer. Then Gatsby takes Nick to lunch in New York where he tells the story of his life. On the journey a policeman pulls Gatsby over. Gatsby merely shows the police man a white car and the policeman exempts him from the violation. When they get to lunch the meet Meyer Wolfsheim who is Gatsby’s criminal friend. Meyer describes his place in the 1919 World Series in which he paid off the players but was not convicted. At lunch Gatsby sees Ton Buchanan, which causes Gatsby to mysteriously disappear after shaking Tom’s hand. Nick then meets up with Jordan who describes the story of when she first met Gatsby in Louisville. She further enlightens Nick about Gatsby’s plan to meet with Daisy at his house. Nick later describes the seen in which he and Jordan kiss under the bridge.
Meyer Wolfsheim
“It never occurred to me that one man could start to play with the faith of fifty million people-with a single mindedness of a burglar robbing a safe.” (73)
Criminal: Fixed the World Series and involvement in a shooting.
Powerful: Has rich connections.
Selfish: Does what will gain him profit not what is morally right.
Intelligent: He has never been to prison or been caught by the police.
Mr. Wolfsheim seems to be Gatsby’s connection to the world of crime and his own past. Although living an almost divine life it is clear that associated with Mr. Wolfsheim reunites Gatsby with the underworld of crime. Furthermore, by being friends with Mr. Wolfsheim for a long amount of time it can be said that Gatsby truly does have a different side to him. The fact that he so closely associates with this man directly shows that he associates or has been associated with criminals for a while. Mr. Woflsheim brings to life Gatsby’s other more darker side and gives Nick the perception that his money may have come from crime.
“They shook hands briefly, and a strained, unfamiliar look of embarrassment came over Gatsby’s face.”(74)
“They shook hands briefly, and a strained, unfamiliar look of embarrassment came over Gatsby’s face.”(74)
This quote is significant because it foreshadows the relationship between Gatsby and Tom Buchanan. It is clear that Gatsby’s actions show that he is uncomfortable around Tom and through other signs of the novel it is clear that Daisy may be the reason. This quote is significant because it is the first time that these two prestigious men meet and sets the stage for the drama to unfold between them. Furthermore, it shows a weakness in Gatsby that has previously not been identified in the book. This quote shows that this mighty man does indeed feel human emotions of weakness and embarrassment.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Gatsby Ch. 3
a. Owl Eyes
.
b. “Absolutely real-have pages and everything. I thought they’d be a nice durable cardboard. Matter of fact, they’re absolutely real.”
c. Drunk,- The fact that he has been drunk for a week straight.
Foolish- When he shows off to Nick and Jordan that the books are real.
Sheltered- His astonishment at the books shows his lack of experience in a high class environment.
Ignorant- The Books.
Lower class- Mannerisms seem out of place within the high class party.
d. This character demonstrates the contrast between poor and rich in the story. Owl Eyes represents a drunk and the contrast between him and the rest of the invitees to Gatsby’s party is striking. His drunken behavior is the total opposite of the high-class mannerisms of the other party guests. The fact that he is surprised by how “real” the books are is a prime example of his class level. Lastly, it is interesting that Nick and Jordan came upon Owl Eyes in their search for Gatsby. Owl Eyes is the middle age man that they expected and it is clear that he it is ironic that he would be in Gatsby’s library.
Nick describes the elaborate parties and activities that he has seen occur at Gatsby’s house during the summer. One day Gatsby’s chauffer invites Nick to a party. Nick is thrilled and arrives at the party knowing no one but to his relief he runs into Jordan Baker. Nick hears many rumors concerning his host, which prompt him and Jordan to go and find the mysterious Gatsby. They enter his library to find a man named Owl eyes drunk commenting on the books. The two go outside where a man approaches Nick and introduces himself as Gatsby himself. At 2:00 Nick observes husbands and wives fighting while Gatsby requests to meet with Jordan. After she is done Jordan describes the meeting as being extraordinary and the two leave to see Owl Eye’s car wreck. Nick begins to describe his work life and love life and mentions that he has fallen in love with Jordan.
“A sudden emptiness seemed to flow now from the windows and the great doors, endowing with complete isolation the figure of the host, who stood on the porch, his hand up in a formal gesture of farewell.”
This quote is the first time that a negative depiction of Gatsby is said by Nick. From this desciption it is clear that despite all his power and fame Gatsby suffers from severe loneliness. This quote relates to a major theme of the novel money. From this depiction despite all of Gatsby’s money he is still lonely. This quote is significant because it exemplifies how money has not supplied Gatsby with happiness. The other side of Gatsby that one sees from this quote is significant in identifying Gatsby as a whole. Although his actions and reputation portray him as a jubilant popular man it is clear that the real Gatsby is truly alone.
Monday, January 31, 2011
David Bornstein Gatsby Ch. 2
Ch. 2 p. 15-25
Nick describes the valley of ashes, which lies mid way between West Egg and East Egg. He talks about the men who word there and of the advertisement of Dr. Eckleburg which watches over the valley. One day Nick and Tom are riding on the train going to New York city when Tom forces Nick off the train and takes him to see his mistress. They arrive at a man named Wilson’s garage and meet his wife Myrtle who is Tom’s lover. The three of them go to New York City and Tom and Myrtle throw a party at their apartment. They invite Myrtle’s sister Catherine, and the Mckees. Catherine tells Nick of Gatsby’s relation to Keiser Wilhelm and Nick gets drunk for the second time in his life. Myrtle begins to talk about Daisy and Tom breaks her nose, which abruptly ends the party. Nick leaves with Mr. Mckee and takes the 4 am train back to Long Island.
- George Wilson
- “Wilson, He thinks she goes to see her sister in New York. He’s so dumb he doesn’t know he’s alive.”
- Hopeful: His reaction when seeing Nick and Tom.
Powerless: Easily put in place by Tom about the car, Myrtle bosses him around.
Ignorant: He has no idea about the affair.
Simple: His clothing and mannerisms are on of a simple man.
d.
George Wilson is a humble non-flashy man that directly contradicts the mannerisms and lifestyle of Tom. George seems to be a push over being taken advantage of by his wife and Tom. George represents the working class innocence that is being taken advantage of by the aristocratic class. Furthermore, George represents the humbleness of a working class citizen. George’s role in the novel is to contradict the lifestyle of his wife’s lover Tom and to represent a working class person being taken advantage of by the rich.
“ Making a short deft movement Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand.”
This quote exemplifies the real Tom Buchanan. Behind the glamour and romantic ness that Tom displays this quote shows that Tom truly has a more violent side to him. Furthermore, it portrays his protectiveness of Daisy despite the fact that when he is with her he is cruel to her. It is clear that Tom still does have feelings for Daisy and apart of him wants to protect her well being. Lastly, this quote is significant because it shows that Tom and Myrtles love affair may not be as romantic as perceived. The fact that he would go so far as to break her nose shows that he may not love Myrtle with all his soul. A real lover does not hurt their counterpart, which leads me to believe that Tom may not be in love with Myrtle.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
David Bornstein Gatsby Ch. 1
Ch.1 p. 1-15
The narrator Nick Carraway begins to describe his background mentioning that an important lesson that he learned from his father was to not judge others. He then begins to describe Gatsby who encompasses everything he does like but is an exception to Nick . Nick had moved to New York to work in the bond business and lives in a part of New York called West Egg. One night nick drives to his cousin’s Daisy’s house in East Egg. There, Nick meets the golfer Miss Jordan Baker and is reunited with Tom Buchannan, Daisy’s husband who was apart of Nick’s social club at Yale. At dinner Tom discusses a book he read called “Rise of the Colored Empires” which portrays white supremacist ideas. Tom receives a phone call and leaves the table. After Daisy leaves the table to follow her husband Miss Baker tells Nick that the call is from Tom’s lover. Nick leaves and when he arrives back at his house he sees his neighbor Gatsby for the first time.
Character: Jordan Baker
“If she saw me out of the corner of her eye she gave no hunt of it-indeed, I was almost surprised into murmuring an apology for having disturbed her by coming in. “
-Self centered. She takes no notice of Nick coming into the room nor does she pay much attention to Nick when he talks to her.
-Beautiful: Nick description of her and when he says, “I enjoyed looking at her.”
-Nosy: She silences Nick in order that she can hear the drama that in enfolding between Tom and Daisy.
-Athletic; She is a professional golfer.
Jordan’s role in the novel is as Daisy’s closest friend and a perspective lover for Nick. She seems to be a strong woman whose independence contrasts Daisy’s more clingy personality. Furthermore, it is clear that a connection between Jordan and Nick is formed by his thoughts about her and the fact that Daisy and Tom want to set them up together.
Lastly it seems that Jordan Baker is an inside source onto what is going on between Tom and Daisy for Nick.
“Something about his leisurely movements and the secure position of his feet upon the lawn suggested that it was Mr. Gatsby himself, come out to determine what share was his of our local heavens.”
This quote is apart of the first true description of Mr. Gatsby’s physical appearance. This quote establishes Gatsby as an almost divine presence that rules over the world. Furthermore, from this quote one can see the true admiration that Nick has for Mr. Gatsby despite the fact that this is his first glimpse of the man. Nick’s description of Gatsby shows how much he admires him and how this admiration will undoubtedly grow throughout the course of the novel. Lastly, this quote describes the sheer power of Gatsby and how he owns so much. The fact that he own “heavens” exemplifies Gatsby’s wealth and the power he has within his community.
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