FAQ About The Great Gatsby

Fitzgerald uses symbolism extensively in "The Great Gatsby" to convey complex ideas and themes. The novel is full of symbols that represent deeper meanings and add depth to the story. Here are a few examples of how Fitzgerald uses symbolism in the novel:

• The Green Light: The green light at the end of Daisy's dock symbolizes Gatsby's hopes and dreams, as well as the unreachable nature of the American Dream.
• The Valley of Ashes: The Valley of Ashes, the desolate wasteland between West Egg and New York City, symbolizes the moral decay and corruption of the wealthy elite and the harsh realities of the American Dream.
• The Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg: The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg on the billboard overlooking the Valley of Ashes represent the all-seeing, but ultimately powerless, eyes of God, as well as the moral emptiness of the upper class.
• Gatsby's Mansion: Gatsby's mansion symbolizes the excess and extravagance of the wealthy elite and the superficiality of their lifestyles.
• Gatsby's Car: Gatsby's car represents both his wealth and his moral corruption, as it is involved in both the hit-and-run accident that kills Myrtle Wilson and Gatsby's own death.
• The Color White: The color white is associated with purity and innocence, but in the novel, it is used to represent the emptiness and shallowness of the upper class.

By using symbols in this way, Fitzgerald is able to create a multi-layered narrative that explores complex themes and ideas, and he adds depth and richness to the story.