How money widens the gap of loneliness in the great gatsby :: essays research papers

The 1920s in the united States was a fourth dimension of economic growth in which people lived frivolous lives by believing their money would make them happy. It was a time of alcoholic prohibition and a time of emancipation for women. Thus, it was a time of parties, drinking and wild women for those who could afford it. Those who were at the bottom of society were constantly striving for the top of the economic ladder.This time era, in Long Island, is the basis of F. Scotts Fitzgeralds book, The Great Gatsby. It has become one of the great classics in American literature and is well known for its commentary on social status. Through the groundwork of many status oriented characters, Fitzgerald comments on the social lives of those living in the twenties. But does it go beyond the social status issues it addresses, and focus on something deeper? Yes, the characters may focus on their constant climb to economic well being, but more importantly they reveal a theme of The Great Gat sby in the center of mans heart is loneliness and the need to be needed, which is surrounded by the greed of money. Gatsby offers a detailed social picture of the stresses of an advanced capitalistic culture in the early 1920s (Fitter), Fitzgerald discloses in these people a meanness of spirit, carelessness and absence of loyalties. He cannot hate them, for they are dumb in their insensate selfishness, and only to be pitied. (Clark). Fryc 2The plot, or general development of the story, is carefully designed to grow as the reader gets to know the characters. It isnt until the remainder few chapters that the actual events of the story add to the theme. Even then, the characters reactions to these events are what strengthen the theme of loneliness.The narrator, Nick Carraway, presents his own view of himself at the low of the story. By being the narrator, he only allows the reader to know what he wants them to know about him. He gives the theory that he is an upright human being th at reserves all judgments (p.1). However, by the end of the story, he has come to the conclusion that everyone he has come into contact with is shallow and self-absorbed. Although he might give the impression that he is content with life, a small glimpse of loneliness can be seen in him.