The American Dream in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is a romantic and cynical novel about the wealth and habits of a group of New Yorkers during the Jazz Age and a fantastic story that many people can relate to. Fitzgerald's writing is unassailably magnificent, as he paints a grim portrait of shallow characters who maneuver themselves into complex situations. This classic American novel is required reading for a lot of high school students, and it can definitely be appreciated and understood on some levels by teenagers. The Great Gatsby is in many ways similar to Romeo and Juliet, yet I believe that it is so much more than just a love story. 

It has captured the attention of many audiences for over half a century. One of the aspirations of many people is to become rich and famous; and, that is what The Great Gatsby is all about. The Great Gatsby is in many ways similar to Romeo and Juliet, yet I believe that it is so much more than just a love story. The descriptions are jarringly, magnificently beautiful so that it almost made my heart ache. However, unlike in Romeo and Juliet, the characters in The Great Gatsby are in themselves very flawed and very hard to sympathise with. But that is the beauty of the book. However, Fitzgerald's use of language and symbolism is best appreciated by mature readers able to analyze literature and think critically.

Some characters express racial and religious prejudice. This style of writing draws the reader in because it is exciting, breathtaking, and there is never a dull moment. Nick Carraway is someone on the outside receiving a glimpse into a new world. This draws in the audience because we have all been outsiders looking in at one time. Therefore, this style of narration makes the reader feel like they are getting a glimpse of something special. It  is a breathtaking novel. The author’s use of symbolism to play on the reader’s emotions makes this a relatable story. Many consider The Great Gatsby to be depressing because, in the end, those who dream do not achieve their aspirations. However, the main message that Fitzgerald sends to us isn't that dreaming will lead to despair, but that chasing an unworthy dream will lead to tragedy.